Learn to Be Still

John Wesley (1703-1791), one of the founders of the Methodist movement, was "hooked" on the Lottery. He would rise each morning at 4:00 and trust that God would cause his Bible to open to precisely the passage that John needed. This discipline -- the Biblical Lottery -- served him well for many years.

As one of John's spiritual descendants, I must confess that I only rise at 4:00 when Ash, our Great Dane, places his moist nose on my face indicating that he has "needs" that are best addressed outdoors. And, when it is time to read Scripture (almost certainly during daylight hours), I trust the Holy Spirit to use a Lectionary (a program of prescribed texts) at least as effectively as a Lottery.

However, I occasionally employ a Lottery method for choosing a CD for use while driving a car. With the CD case on the adjoining seat and my eyes on the road, I draw one from the case without looking (Although, by now, I can usually find The Eagles, James Taylor, or Mary Chapin Carpenter any time I wish.). Today, I heard the words of a contemporary prophet, Don Henley of The Eagles.

"We are like sheep without a shepherd; we don't know how to be alone.
So we wander 'round this desert and wind up following the wrong gods home.
But the flock cries out for another and they keep answering that bell --
and one more starry-eyed messiah meets a violent farewell.
Learn to be still."

"Learn to Be Still" has been a favorite of mine for 15 years. Henley senses and sings about the same challenge that caused the ancient Psalmist to admonish the Hebrews to "be still and know that I am God" (46:10). How frequently we miss "the heaven lying at our feet" (from "Learn to Be Still) because we keep looking for new "saviors" rather than recognizing that God is indeed present in our present. Because we are constantly looking for messiahs who fulfill our expectations (See Peter's challenge to Jesus in Mark 8:31-33.) we fail to receive the blessing in the midst of every moment -- from joyously exhilarating moments to excruciatingly challenging moments and everything in between.

Whether you prefer an ancient Psalm or a contemporary prophet, may God grant you the gifts of patience and trust -- both rooted in the love of Christ who spoke to the wind and the sea, "Peace! Be still!" (Mark 4:35-41).

Dare to trust God. "Learn to Be Still".