In The Season

For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven: ...a time to weep, and a time to laught; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; ...a time to keep silence, and a time to speak.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4, 7b

We're in the season when we are inundated with words and music and events and...

Now don't get me wrong, I love the music of the season - I probably rush it more than most.  I start listening to the music of Christmas before Thanksgiving some years, just because I do love it.  I love the sounds of the season.

And I just love celebrations.  I enjoy taking communion to our folds who are unable to join us on Sundays.  I love the programs and the parties and the rush of goodwill that seems to radiate during this time of year.

BUT, I do think there are time when I need to slow down and be quiet and listen.  I need to listen for the voices of children who are tired or bored or hurting or hungry.  I need to listen to people who are aching with loneliness or living in pain or grieving their losses.  And, I need to listen to God's voice - sand sometimes to hear that i need silence.

So, here's my challenge to you for this month of Advent and Christmas:  Enjoy the music and the sounds and the delight of the celebrations.  But also find sometime each day to soak in some silence and listen for God's loving voice.  Take the time!