Holy Saturday, March 30, 2024
“Spend at Least 30 Minutes Alone in Silence”
Today’s Lenten Challenge is to spend some time alone in silence. This one may seem a bit strange (not like any of the others haven’t been strange?), but this one will be powerful.
When was the last time you spent time alone in silence? Staring into the eyes of your beloved doesn’t count, although the time will surely fly by! This Challenge requires complete solitude as well as silence from artificial noises. Reading a book doesn’t count (unless it’s the Holy Scriptures) but sitting on the beach is great. Relaxing in the recliner, on the couch, or in the bed is just fine, assuming the TV isn’t on and also assuming that you don’t fall asleep. Praying is great. Writing in your journal is fine. Preparing dinner is a “No” because you would be distracted. Watching the birds outside is a “Yes” because you are in God’s natural Creation. Does this make sense?
The purpose of this Challenge is to spend some time alone with ourselves in the presence of God. No matter where you choose to complete this Challenge, God will be with you if you aren’t distracted by something man-made. It is when we are alone and undistracted that God often speaks. God’s voice may not be audible to you, but you’ll be surprised at what God says in the silence.
On Holy Saturday, Jesus spent the entire day in the sealed tomb. It was complete silence except for the birds and bugs. Lots of Christians will practice a vow of silence today (no speaking). We’re not asking you to go that far in our Challenge, but if you’re really wanting to be extreme, that’s the way to do it.
Today, honor the LORD by spending 30 minutes in silence. Enjoy creation. Take deep breaths. Be still. God is already there, waiting for each of us.
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10, ESV)
