“The madness of a hurry-scurry-worry world”
Johnny Almond wrote the following post as to why he’s signed up for April’s “Unforced Rhythms of Grace” contemplative retreat here at Eagle Eyrie. Learn more and seriously consider joining him and others for a couple days away from the demands of the world.
The windstorm of worry never strengthens my soul. The earthquake of ego never brings me nearer to the Eternal One. The fire of fear never calms my heart. These three common approaches to life weaken, worsen, and wreck my inner being.
But when I try the uncommon approach of silencing the comfort of noise, quieting my heart in the Presence of God, and listening for His still small voice, I am blessed with spiritual vitality, intimacy with my Savior, optimism to face tomorrow, and courage to tackle the challenges of ministry.
In the madness of a hurry-scurry-worry world … in the mayhem of an action-oriented society … in the mistakes of a works-mentality religious culture … I occasionally need a contemplative retreat – a time to recover sanity, calm down, replenish my soul for the journey, and enjoy the nonchalant waltz of grace.
Harmony is sweeter than hectivity. Peace is better than pandemonium. The blessing of stillness is better than the burden of stress. Knowing that God is God – and I am not – is the path to tranquility … something I can never find in common approaches to life, something I can always find in the uncommon approach of hushed humility in the presence of the Holy One.
Virginia Baptists are blessed with an uncommonly beautiful location for contemplative retreats – an eagle’s nest where souls can nestle near the heart of God and be refueled to outsoar mediocrity, outrun temptation, and outwalk faintheartedness. When I have an opportunity to go there, I relish that quiet place where I can wait for the Lord and renew my strength.
