Listen Up, Sheep

It’s not often the house or my mind is this quiet. Frequently the TV is on, a conversation is taking place, I’m reading something or immersed in some nonsense on my phone. This morning, the house is totally quiet. There is a noticeable absence of sound.

The palpable quiet reminds me of the instruction in Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”   I open the Word to John 10:2-4 and it seems to underscore the importance of stillness and listening:

“But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.”

I think of the many times, even without a computer, phone or TV going, I’ve finished my daily Bible reading but haven’t truly engaged with the Father. The ticking of an internal clock and a perceived urgency to get on with the day distracts me and I cut short the opportunity to hear from the Lord. Sadly, I realize I’ve become far too accustomed to rush, to noise, to busyness. In fact, it is abnormal when I feel the absence of it!

It’s in this silence I hear my heart ask a question. Could there be anything more foolish than saying you love a God who desires a relationship with you, who fills you with His Spirit to guide you, convict you of sin, comfort and teach you, and yet not stop to listen for Him?

Prayer:  Father, thank you for your unfathomable, steadfast love. Teach my heart that you own time. It is not my master; You are time’s master and mine. Teach me to seek and embrace the stillness where you meet me. Help me discern your voice and in joyful surrender, follow you daily. In Jesus name, Amen.