Getting Off the Wheel

I have trouble reaching a place of solitude. I’m guessing I’m not alone. 

Mental to-do lists and my tendency to constantly rearrange the furniture in my mind cause quite a needless ruckus. The persistent commotion makes it hard to hear subtle messages from on high. Gentle nudges from the Holy Spirit can be unfortunately squelched by an evening of pathetically unnecessary tasks. I’m all about perpetual activity. Even when I’m not showing signs of physical bustle, my mind is on a hamster wheel. I mean, is it really necessary for me to spend cerebral energy second-guessing the true intent of a  friend’s unusual and obscure comment?  If I haven't planned out the next two days in my head, is it still okay to close my eyes at the end of a long day?  And for the sake of all that is worthwhile, do I REALLY have to organize my spices in alphabetical order? 

Occasionally and mercifully I am reminded that the world will not stop spinning if I close my mouth, turn off the music, and find a place of less distraction to stop the madness. In fact, I have discovered that when I just cease moving and thinking for a moment, I am infinitely more accessible to my Creator. 

Some time ago, I spent an amazing two days at a spiritual retreat center doing something completely out of character. My time was spent in silent personal retreat. I actually was forced to be quiet! It was one of the most powerfully enlightening experiences of my life.

But pressing the pause button on busyness does not come naturally. It takes serious reminders for those of us intent on making lists for every aspect of our lives. I put things on my lists just for the pleasure of crossing them off when complete.  It’s pathological.

So if you’re like me, try this on for size: Put time alone with God on your list. Better yet, make an appointment with Jesus in your datebook!  Include the time you plan to "meet." Don’t let anything get in the way. God is standing by and anticipating your attention. Getting off that hamster wheel to spend some quiet time with God will likely be the one item on your agenda providing the encouragement and connection required for every other aspect of your day. And I’m telling you from experience, your paprika can wait.