In this busiest of seasons, resting in an Advent practice often feels like a battle. Pursuing quiet moments preparing my heart for the wonder of the Greatest Gift, invites me deeper into God’s Presence. As my soul in stillness waits in grief filled moments for the Joy and Peace of a Savior to make all things new, (Revelation 21:5) I reflect upon Jesus as my living Hope in all things.
As my soul basks in the radiance of eternal Hope found in Christ, stillness wraps me in a sacred Peace which transcends my finite understanding.
Welcome to Mindfulness Monday! Where we learn some easy ways to be more present “in the moment” at our jobs, in our homes, with our families and friends.
Learning to recognize God and what He has for us in each divine moment He offers. We acknowledge the belief that God is with us always.
We confess His presence is available to us, lifting our spirit and helping us with power and grace. Learning the art of “stillness” so we can hear His voice and view ourselves, others and our surroundings through His eyes.
My soul in stillness waits
Blessed by the meditative hymn, “My Soul in Stillness Waits” by Marty Haugen, this week I invite you to a few moments of contemplative stillness.
Secure an uninterrupted space where you feel comfortable. Begin with a few moments of mindful deep breathing, simply focusing on how your breath feels as it enters and leaves your body.
Transition to an attitude of prayer seeking to rest in these moments before God, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to you through the verses of the hymn. Try meditating on a favorite Advent verse, or 1 John 2:8:
“Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and in you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining.”
My Soul Waits For Light
Verse one waits for the coming Light. John 1:4-5, 1 John 1:5
For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waits,
Truly my hope is in you.
O Lord of Light, our only hope of glory,
Your radiance shines in all who look to you,
Come, light the hearts of all in dark and shadow.
My Soul waits for joy
Verse two waits for the coming Joy. Luke 1:14-15, Zechariah 2:10
For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waits,
Truly my hope is in you.
O Spring of Joy, rain down upon our spirits,
Our thirsty hearts are yearning for your Word,
Come, make us whole, be comfort to our hearts.
My soul waits for life
Verse three waits for the coming Life. 1 John 5:11, John 14:6
For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waits,
Truly my hope is in you.
O Root of Life, implant your seed within us,
And in your advent draw us all to you,
Our hope reborn in dying and in rising.
my souls waits for knowledge
The last verse waits for Knowledge. 1 Corinthians 1:24, Colossians 2:2-3
For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waits,
Truly my hope is in you.
O Key of Knowledge, guide us in our pilgrimage,
We ever seek, yet unfulfilled remain,
Open to us the pathway of your peace.
advent stillness of hope
A deeper revelation of the Messiah comes as the gift of Advent. For those who rest in the stillness of reflection, the Light, Joy, Life, and Knowledge of the Messiah wraps their hearts in His Peace.
What is the posture of your soul this Advent season?
Come, weary one; Come, you of little strength, Come, precious one with your grief laden heart. Rest in these moments of stillness, for there, Hope will meet you.
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Natalie Ogbourne says
Your section about the soul waiting brings Ps 62 to mind, as does your encouragement to be still.
Donna says
Natalie, YES! Psalm 62 is one of my favorites, and truly goes well with our soul waiting patiently with and on God!
Lisa Blair says
His Presence, stillness, waiting…our heart posture makes such a huge difference during this season, Donna. May you and your family have a peaceful, grace-filled Christmas season.
Donna says
Yes Lisa, I’m really beginning to understand the nuances of heart posture before God and the difference it makes in my relationship with Him.
Linda Stoll says
beautifully said, Donna. my soul in stillness waits, too. i’m so grateful He understands and is with us in the waiting, the hoping, the yearningl.
Donna says
Thank you, Linda. Though it seems lonely at times, sitting in the stillness before God truly brings an intimacy missed at other times!