Lent Day 46, Saturday, Apr 3, 2021

“Silence”

Along with Fasting, another prominent discipline in Faith is the vow of Silence, often practiced by those who are seeking a more personal connection with God.  Most of the time, we associate the practice of Silence with Christian monks, living in monastic communities that are dedicated to serving God.  However, the discipline has been recorded as a primary means of Christian devotion since the early 4th Century AD, but even at that time, vows of Silence were already common among the Church. 

Silence is difficult to practice in our modern culture.  We are surrounded by means to communicate.  Voice communication is a basic and primary need of humankind, which is the reason that taking some time to be quiet is so difficult.  But just as we need to make the effort to speak, it’s also important that we learn how to listen.

Today is about listening.  This is Easter weekend, and before the tomb is opened tomorrow, consider taking some time to be Silent.  Listen for God’s voice and listen to others, but when possible, refrain from speaking.  This is a difficult one to explain to others, but it’s an excellent discipline to learn.

The rules?  As much as possible, be Silent today.  When our voice needs to be heard, speak and respond!  However, refrain from the casual talk, needless babble, and the initiation of conversation.  This also includes refraining from initiating texts and emails.  Don’t be rude today, but don’t start it if we don’t need it.  (If you're at work today, you're obviously exempt!  But try!)

Can we achieve Silence today?  Begin the Challenge now and continue until midnight, Saturday.  A few hours after that, the tomb will open and we will rejoice at the top of our lungs!

“Be still before the LORD, and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7a, NRSV).