Peace in the Waiting

I crave peace. Yet recently I've become aware of how much I try to avoid stillness. Stillness is vulnerable, and it often feels more gratifying to grab my phone and start strolling. However, I truly do want to get better at focusing on Jesus and asking Him to help me quiet my swirling thoughts.

Right now, one of my favorite practices is sitting in a darkened room and gazing into the glow of a battery-powered candle. I pray, and most of the time I listen to music. Often I'll read the Bible or journal. This might sound dramatic or strange, but I've found this habit deeply encouraging. Perhaps because the candle is a physical representation of Light pushing back darkness.

This Lent, consider asking God to show you a simple habit that will help you turn your attention to Him amidst the chaos of life. If you're unsure what to do, maybe light a candle and turn on some soft instrumental music (or any other song of your choice). If you want, you can read Psalm 84, which I'm including below. Then wait for Holy Spirit to speak. He may come in words, thoughts, emotions, or simple silence...and there's beauty in all of it.

I know many of you are struggling greatly right now, and I admire your courage. I'm praying that you'll be flooded with the inextinguishable peace of Jesus, which no amount of suffering can take away.

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Psalm 84 (New International Version)

How lovely is your dwelling place,    

Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints,    

for the courts of the Lord;

my heart and my flesh cry out   

for the living God.

Even the sparrow has found a home,    

and the swallow a nest for herself,    

where she may have her young—

a place near your altar,   

Lord Almighty, my King and my God.

Blessed are those who dwell in your house;   

they are ever praising you.

Blessed are those whose strength is in you,    

whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.

As they pass through the Valley of Baka,    

they make it a place of springs;    

the autumn rains also cover it with pools.

They go from strength to strength,    

till each appears before God in Zion.

Hear my prayer, Lord God Almighty;    

listen to me, God of Jacob.

Look on our shield, O God;    

look with favor on your anointed one.

Better is one day in your courts    

than a thousand elsewhere;

I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God    

than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

For the Lord God is a sun and shield;    

the Lord bestows favor and honor;

no good thing does he withhold    

from those whose walk is blameless.

Lord Almighty,    

blessed is the one who trusts in you.