By Wilma Clarke
In these days of self-isolation, no matter how hard we try to distract ourselves with books, movies, hobbies and other activities, we will find we have some empty or “still” time on our hands. This can feel very intimidating at first. However, if we welcome this stillness, and accept that God may be trying to break through to us in this emptiness, then it can be a very rich time indeed.
God speaks to us in many different ways. Some people hear a still, small voice. Others have images, or visions. Some people have a song stuck in their head for a day or more (pay attention to the lyrics!). Some people dream. This is a great time to start a dream diary. Other people find God in nature: in that sighting of the pair of cardinals, or the seeing green shoots poking out of the garden bed of leaves. God speaks to us through animals, and the unconditional love of pets. Some people find God in crafts that allow a contemplative stance, such as knitting, stitchwork, tracing, woodworking, painting, among many other hobbies. Another way to hear God is through reading some classic religious and spiritual writers. And as always, reading the Word of God in the Bible.
So when we find this empty time on our hands just now, instead of frantically trying to fill it, what would it look like to pray into it? What would it look like if we simply said to God, I am here now and ready to listen. This is a time where we can receive from God. We may receive creativity, new ideas, new ways of being. We may receive love and comfort. We may receive insight and wisdom. Connecting with God is always our desire, but we have an opportunity to connect now with a clear channel, devoid of the usual distractions of life. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if everyone felt the invitation from God to connect? I pray that they do. Amen.
Wilma Clarke is a trained spiritual director and parishioner at Christ Church, Bolton. To learn more about her ministry, you can email our pastor and we will be sure to connect you with her.