Intensity


Intensity
Light is unique in many ways. We perceive it in a spectrum of what we might call its strength.
Physicists would call this variable amount of light emitted or transmitted, the light’s “intensity.”

Darkness, on the other hand, does not exist as a “thing” or condition. Darkness is simply the
absence of light.

The Bible uses these images when describing spiritual life, as well. He is Light, and He is life.
Where are you walking?

Friday, April 12, 2013

Gleanings From Nature: White Noise


Have you ever been in an office during a power outage? It is almost impossible to realize how much noise there is in an office until there is no electricity. Printers, computers, HVAC equipment and other electronic devices are constantly emitting low hums that our ears tune out. But in the moment they stop receiving power, you realize what quiet actually means. There is an almost eerie stillness that fills the air when the sound waves stop. For me, the first few minutes can be unnerving. I have become so accustomed to the vibrations that I feel very alone, or even vulnerable, when they cease. I become more aware of sounds, a dripping faucet, a cough, a falling pencil…I realize how much I have missed because I didn’t hear.

A night outside, away from the city can provide this same benefit. When I get beyond the traffic, conversations, and construction I can suddenly hear. What better environment to talk to God in? I know that I am often easily distracted when I pray because I am not getting into a good physical location. Jesus showed us the importance of clearly hearing and talking to the Father. When Jesus knew that His time on earth was coming to an end, He wanted to talk to the Father and express His anguish. He was already in the company of His closest followers and in a reverent celebration of Passover, which one might think was the perfect place to be to talk to God. Yet, He decided to leave the upper room, go outside the city of Jerusalem, and seek time with the Father in the garden of Gethsemane; He got away from the noise and into nature. 

God desires a close relationship with us, and hopefully we want the same. But, how strong can a relationship be with poor communication? I would challenge you this week, if you’ve been feeling distracted or like God isn’t speaking, to try and get out and away from the clatter. There is a good chance that He has been reaching out to you all along, but His still, small voice was impossible to hear over the fax machines of life.

By C Sampson
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1 comment:

  1. AnonymousApril 20, 2013 at 12:24 PM

    I am way too distracted by the white noise. I needed this kick in the pants.

    ReplyDelete

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