Sit

While sitting in the dentist office waiting room,

a lady, who was reading a fairly thick hardback novel,

was summoned by the receptionist for her appointment.

She replaced her bookmark,

arose from her chair

and slowly made her way across the room.

She chuckled as she informed the nurse,

“I have twenty pages left in my book,

and the only time I’ve ever read it

is when I have been here in this room.”

Sitting… Waiting…

we all spend a lot of time doing it.

Some people have a plan

conjuring creative activities to occupy

this unavoidable dead time.

They crochet or read.

They surf the internet,

work a crossword puzzle

or catch up on paperwork.

They listen to their ipod,

make phone calls

or chat with the co-waiting strangers they meet.

Others just sit.

It seems they have no plan,

no motivation,

no organization,

no active brain cells,

no desire.

That may be so, but

appearances can be deceptive.

Perhaps the one who is sitting still

is praying,

is planning,

is memorizing,

is mourning,

is composing,

is listening…

Is sitting still socially unacceptable?

Is being quiet a lost art?

Is the din of contemplation too difficult?

A quietness focused on Jesus

offers access to

peace beyond understanding,

contentment,

patience…

and opportunity for the Holy Spirit

to be heard.

~ae

“He caused the storm to be still,

so that the waves of the sea were hushed. 

Then they were glad because they were quiet,

so He guided them to their desired haven. 

Let them give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness,

and for His wonders to the sons of men!”

~Psalm 107:29-31

“He leads me beside quiet waters,

He restores my soul…”

~Psalm 23:2

“…the imperishable quality

of a gentle and quiet spirit,

which is precious in the sight of God.” 

~I Peter 3:4

“Be still

and know that I am God.”

~Psalm 46:10