Wednesday of the Fourth Week in Lent

When God spoke on Mt. Sinai, the whole world became silent.

My bus used to be quiet in the mornings. People getting on the bus, reading the paper or a book, or just looking out the window readying themselves for a new workday. Cellphones, bass beats eminating from tiny white buds attached to ears, and conversations with relative strangers about last night's party or an office affair distract. It is hard to imagine over 600,000 people remaining silent.

Mystics say it is possible to learn every aspect of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament. They are our touchstone for spiritual living. However, not only do we learn from what is written in the Bible, but we also learn from what is not written. Everything has meaning, even the spaces between the words, the silence. Such sacred silence helps us to remember that we are never alone. Wherever we go, God is with us. Spend some silent time today. Get away from distractions of profane noise. Get off the bus. Listen for God's voice in the silent world that surrounds you.

Webb