Solitary Places
I confess! Last Friday I left the house to go shopping for bargains at 4:30 AM. Usually at this early hour, I am in quiet retreat with Jesus. However, on this day known as Black Friday in the US, quiet retreat would be a huge misnomer for what I experienced. The cacophony of
- many voices beckoning me to make a purchase,
- crowds calling out as they shopped, and
- blaring Christmas music
made it difficult to think clearly, let alone make a wise decision.
At times, my personal life, family life, work life and even church life can possess the chaotic impulses I experienced last Friday at the shopping mall. Careful introspection while listening to God needs a solitary place. Maybe that is why Jesus in the midst of His work and time with friends was always seeking a quiet place.
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. (Mark 1:35 NIV)
In the midst of the noises of life, I desperately need solitary places where I can retreat from the chaos of life and seek God. Will you join me in carving out quiet times and places with God? We will be better together when we have sought God alone.
Sharing the journey with you, 