Thursday, March 12, 2020  

Today’s Hymn
Breathe through the heats of our desire
thy coolness and thy balm;
let sense be dumb, let flesh retire;
speak through the earthquake, wind, and fire,
O still, small voice of calm!

“Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” (v. 5) by John Greenleaf Whittier
Hymn 169, Glory to God: The Presbyterian Hymnal

Reflection
It is a rare moment for me to be in a state of calm and quiet. Most days of mine are a whirlwind of rushing my child to school, rushing to work, rushing home to help with homework, do chores, and prepare for the next day. I rarely get time alone away from others. It’s very hard to find peace, quiet, and solitude with a busy schedule and a child almost always in tow. This can take its toll on one’s spiritual life. I know that I don’t nearly spend enough quiet time with God.

This hymn verse reminds us to make room for quiet time in our lives, time set aside to be with God. While we can experience God in many different ways—through scripture, through music, in a worship service, or during a good conversation with a friend—quiet times and reflection both do a lot of good for our spiritual lives and our relationship with God.

Prayer
Loving God, my schedule is fast-paced and hectic, and you often get left out in the craziness of my day. Help me to slow down to find you and the love and peace that you provide. Amen.

Written by Briana Belding-Peck, Family Ministry Coordinator

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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