“Be still and know that I am God.” -Psalm 46:1
Every season seems to be rushed. Whether we’re talking about Christmas, preparing for Easter celebrations, or any other season that comes about, it’s easy to feel bombarded with things to do and accomplish. It’s true that we are busy people with busy lives. I’m not sure how your week has been. I hope it has been a good week, even if it was busy or a little more relaxed.
The last few weeks have been filled with preparation for this week. It’s a busy week as we prepare for worship, special events and for many of us welcoming family for the celebration of Easter. In the midst of all that needs to be done, I hope we take some time to slowly and reflectively read the last three chapters of Luke again. Take some time to slow down, be still, and reflect on this Holy Week.
As a pastor, it can be easy to move quickly through the Lenten season as we prepare to observe Holy Week and Easter. There are many worship services to plan, sermons to write, and things to prepare for. It can be easy to forget to reflect on this season and on our lives, which is the call of Lent.
The words of Psalm 46 have often been on my heart and mind, “Be still and know that I am God.” If we are too rushed, always looking to the next event, or if we’re just busy; it can easy to forget about the presence of God throughout the day. There’s a prayer that I often start my day with that asks “Help us to be aware of your presence, O God.” That’s what being still provides. It’s an opportunity to wake ourselves to the reality of God’s presence all around us, even in moments of challenge, weakness, or just pure business.
As we enter Holy Week, I invite you to take some time to be still and know God’s presence is all around you. Take the time to reflect on the meaning of Palm Sunday as we wave palm branches, Holy Thursday and sit at the table with others and with Jesus, Good Friday and the cross, Holy Saturday and Jesus’ movement from death to life, and Easter Sunday and the resurrection.
May you have a blessed Holy Week.