The Great Unwinding
Be-ing Precedes Stillness
Be-ing still is like the great unwinding of a tightly wound swing. As a child, I would wind the swing as tightly as possible by turning around and around until the chains could wind no more, then, I would let go! Just remembering this makes me want to get on a swing! Sure... I screamed, got dizzy, and sometimes wished I could get off the ride when the swing swung wildly. (say that 3 times. Ha... swing swung wildly) All in all, though, I loved the thrill. Eventually the great unwinding became slower and slower and even steady. Eventually, I could touch the ground with my feet. I was still dizzy for a while, but at least I was sitting.
Sometimes, this is what be-ing still looks like. Be-ing precedes stillness. When my "swing" is tightly wound by anxious thoughts or pressures from within and without, I can make a choice to let go! I do not have to control the wildly swinging swing, because I know my Lord is there to protect and help. I may look quiet on the outside as I walk or sit, but inside my thoughts might be wandering from one thing to another. It's okay! Because somehow, something happens. I don't know how to describe it. My soul settles into a place of peace. Quietness becomes louder than noise, and I hear the whispers of God.
Let me say this again. Be-ing precedes stillness. The be-ing still that I advocate is Christ centered. This is one way that I take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. I submit my thoughts into his care knowing that he cares for me. I acknowledge the Lord's presence with me, in wherever I am truly at, in the moment. I do not have to pretend with my Lord. Thank God! He is never shocked. Whew! He is an ever present help in time of need.
My hope for each of us today comes from Psalm 37:7 "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him."
Enjoy today. Let go of cares. Let your swing, swing wildly! The Lord is with you... in all
“Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ”
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.”