It’s common to believe and agree that God speaks to people through the use of words; the Bible is the classic example of this with many accounts confirming that he does. But he also speaks in many other ways, and if we’re listening, not with our ears, but our hearts, we just might hear so much more.
It is no easy task to walk this earth and find peace. Inside of us, it would seem, something is at odds with the very rhythm of things, and we are forever restless, dissatisfied, frustrated and aching. We are so overcharged with desire that it is hard to come to simple rest.
RONALD ROLHEISER
Thinking back, there have been countless times I have ‘heard’ God but missed his voice: in the soft cool breeze that skips over my skin on a warm day, in the moments of quiet in the morning when it’s just me and the early morning birds, in the touch of my granddaughters hand in mine. So many times where the pen would never be able to articulate the moment, and yet, they are there for me to experience and acknowledge his presence through.
Our lives are so noisy, so cluttered with responsibilities, expectations, lists and distractions, that to connect with God and meditate on his presence with nothing more than our senses seems too simple. We ‘need’ our Bibles, our soaking music, our journals, our podcasts. And sure, these are all wonderful tools that help us learn about and connect with God, but when all is said and done, he gave us tools no one can take away – sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste – so we could partake of his presence in ways so unique no two experiences of him will ever compare.
What a wonder this is: that he would give each of us such individual ways to approach and engage with him, that he would provide such simple and visceral tools to experience him with.
May we walk out each day in a state of wonder that God, who could create the most complex of systems to connect with him, chose to provide so many ways to hear him. Yes, spend time in the Word and learn wisdom and gain understanding. Yes, ask him to speak through the pen as you take time to journal. Yes, listen to his voice through trusted companions and let him reveal his great mysteries of life to you through music and art.
But also, listen for his voice through the touch of a newborn’s fingers on your face. Let him speak to you as the magpie warbles. Hear him as you take in the majesty of a sunrise. Experience his presence as a beautiful aroma wafts into your environment. Delight in his goodness as you eat freshly baked bread.
We must be ready to allow ourselves to be interrupted by God.
DIETRICH BONHOEFFER
Let the God of the universe expand your awareness and be amazed as each experience deepens your relationship with him, and by default, yourself and others. This process of encountering God through our senses and letting the small, seemingly insignificant moments stop us to pause and acknowledge his wonder, draws us to him and teaches us to slow down, quiet down and take stock of the great mystery of who he is, and who we are to him.
Blessings and honour to you,
Miriam
Miriam E. Miles 