Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at Me, your High God, above politics, above everything. ~ Sons of Korah [1]
Now that you’ve decided to say ‘yes’ to Jesus’ invitation to “Come, follow Me,” I’d like to invite you to do something our society knows very little about.
Instead of trying to do something impressive that proves your faithfulness to Jesus, might I suggest that you simply sit down right where you are, be still, and rest yourself in a moment of silence & solitude in Jesus’ presence?
Better yet, why don’t you close this page and go find yourself a nice quiet place where distractions will be at a minimum. You might go outside into nature, finding a quiet, serene spot where you can rest for a moment and be away from all the noise. I suggest that you turn off your electronic devices. Don’t fret. Life can wait. This won’t take long.
Now, as you are sitting in this quiet place, get comfortable with your body. Position yourself in such a way that your hands and feet are at rest. Relax yourself. Loosen up those tight muscles, allowing the tension to drop off your shoulders. Now, as you feel a bit more relaxed, give your mind permission to take a short break. Try your best to slow down your thoughts and let go of your emotions so you are not processing a mile a minute. Next, take a series of deep, deep breaths. Go slow. Feel yourself drawing in a breath. Let the air out slowly. Give yourself about 2 to 3 minutes of relaxed breathing. Enjoy the quiet around you.
How does that feel?
For some, it’s quite uncomfortable at first, but over time, if you practice this slow breathing exercise on a regular basis, you’ll begin to feel a growing peace and relaxed state within. Therapists say that the tension and trauma we experience on a daily basis actually finds a resting place in our physical body. [2]
Practicing this slow breathing exercise on a regular basis is actually allowing your body, your mind, and your emotions to detox, allowing the trauma and tension of each day to let go and fall harmlessly on the floor.
Shhh.
A space of quiet! A taste of silence.
Believe it or not, you’ve just done one of the very best things you can do as a dedicated follower of Jesus! You’re actually learning to practice the presence of God, leaning upon and trusting that Jesus of Nazareth is, indeed, with you, breathing His Spirit into you, indwelling and empowering you for the inner strength you need to face your day.
Now, only when you’re ready, let’s add in a second blessing…
[1] Psalm 46: 10 (MsgB)
[2] The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
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