The Lonely Place

In his book, Out of Solitude, Henri Nouwen writes about the importance of finding time apart for prayer and silence – which he talks about as a “Lonely place”. He puts it this way:

“Somewhere we know that without a lonely place our lives are in danger. Somewhere we know that without silence words lose their meaning, that without listening, speaking no longer heals, that without distance, closeness cannot cure…When you are able to create a lonely place in the middle of your actions and concerns, your successes and failures slowly can lose some of their power over you…It is in this solitude that we discover that being is more important than having and that we are worth more than the result of our efforts…” 

I wonder what that might look like for you to carve out that time apart?

For some people it might mean sitting quietly first thing in the morning, becoming aware of God’s presence around you and in you… maybe even setting a timer for two minutes… working your way up to five minutes… then maybe up to 20 minutes… (Be patient with yourself. If you’ve never sat it silence it can be difficult at first).

Some people will try to focus on their breath… and the life-giving, healing Spirit of God that is all around us. When their mind drifts, they come back to that breath. Others will simply try to be in touch with all that is stirring inside them and offer it back as a prayer.

The world inside us is a very complex, often troubled, place. Isn’t it? That time can allow us to sort through some of what’s inside, and to listen again to the still small voice of God.

In Matthew chapter 6, in the Message version of the Bible, Jesus talking to his own disciples, says, “Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you possibly can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.” May it be so. 

Let us pray. God of Grace, help us to set apart even a few moments each day of quiet. Meet us in that place. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.