Dana Rongione

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The Power of Stillness to Refresh and Transform

Ah, the joys of automated technology and its misinterpretations! It never fails to surprise us with its unintentional comedy. The other day, I received a call on the automated announcement line from our beloved home church in South Carolina. Unfortunately, I missed the ring, and it went straight to voicemail.  When I checked the message later, I laughed out loud.  The visual voicemail system decided to have a little fun and mixed up "choir practice" with "quiet practice." Oh, the wonders of technology!

Let's pause for a moment and ponder this amusing mishap. Couldn't we all use a dose of "quiet practice" in our lives? A time to be still, to find rest, and to experience the peace that surpasses all understanding. It's like a heavenly comedy skit reminding us to slow down and embrace the calm amidst the chaos.

In Isaiah 30:15, we are graciously reminded, "For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.” How fitting! Even in the mix-up of words on my voicemail, God's Word shines through, emphasising the importance of solace in stillness.

In our fast-paced and constantly connected world, finding moments of quiet practice can be quite challenging. We are bombarded with notifications, messages, and the demands of our daily lives. It's like being caught in the hustle and bustle of a busy marketplace where everyone is vying for our attention. But during these moments, we need to step back and seek the quietness our souls crave.

You might be thinking, "How can I possibly find stillness amidst the chaos?" Well, my friend, let me share a secret: it's all about creating space for quiet practice in your life, no matter how small. It could be as simple as finding a peaceful corner of your home, taking a stroll in nature, or dedicating a few moments each day to sit silently and commune with God.

In our hectic lives, finding moments of quiet practice is not only refreshing but also transformative. It allows us to refocus our hearts and minds, tune out the world’s noise, and hear the gentle whispers of the Holy Spirit guiding us. In these moments of stillness, we can find clarity, gain perspective, and renew our strength.

So, my dear friends, let's embrace the humour in life's little misinterpretations and take a cue from the "quiet practice" mix-up. Let's intentionally seek moments of stillness, knowing that we will find confidence and strength in the quietness. As the psalmist beautifully proclaims in Psalm 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God."