Every two weeks, one of our pastors writes an article for the congregation as part of our newsletter entitled The Advance. Below is the article from (February 1, 2011):
From the Pastor
Be Still and Know that I am God…
This phrase from Psalm 46 is, perhaps, the best guidance we can receive when life seems out of control, difficult, and too much for us, whether this be a 9/11 situation, a family crisis, or having more things to do than time to do them. When life and information proceed at a very fast pace or when life seems empty and pointless, these words remind us where (and in whom) to place our trust. “Be still and know that God is God.”
Being still and trusting in God is really counter-cultural, in our fast paced, information rich age. The world says we need to be busy (or at least look busy) and try to manage or fix others. The reality is that we cannot change any one but ourselves (and often we have trouble managing ourselves.) The answer is to realize we cannot live on our own and to open our lives for God’s spirit to enter and infuse all parts of our reality.
I used to think that my life was more worth-while if I was busy and accomplishing something. But I’ve gradually discovered that living at a fast pace, seeking always to fill the time with activity – and more activity – and trying to keep up with life’s multiple demands just leaves me depleted and frustrated. Peace, guidance and transformation come from slowing down, living attentively, being present in the moment and, to the person in front of us, breathing deeply and learning to just be. I am seeking to “be still and know that God is God” throughout the day.
In this information age, we have more and faster information. We can also be busier – or feel guilty if we do not keep up with cell phone messages, Facebook pages, and emails. There is more information, but less face-to-face time and less sharing of deeper issues. As a church, we are called to remind one another to “Be still and know that God is God.” John Wesley (born 1703) one said: “I have so much to do today that I need to spend two hours in prayer just to get it all done.”
Friends, take time to “Be still and know that God is God,” especially when you are busy or stressed. (And don’t feel guilty: time spent being present to God is NEVER wasted!)
Tracey