Ordinary Time 
Pause
It happens to us every day. Every hour. We have to respond. We have to respond to the car that cuts us off on the road. Respond to the text that just arrived. Respond to the person who is calling our name.
Some of our responses are automatic, and we don’t even think about it. Some are conditioned by our experiences. For some, we have time to breathe and think and pray.
And in the midst, God continues to call… How are we prepared to respond?
Listen
Oh, I must find rest in God only, because my hope comes from him! Only God is my rock and my salvation—my stronghold!—I will not be shaken. My deliverance and glory depend on God. God is my strong rock. My refuge is in God. All you people: Trust in him at all times! Pour out your hearts before him! God is our refuge! Selah
Psalm 62:5-8
Think
The message just came in, and it’s so easy to quickly type a few words and hit send. And typically, that “Send” is a done deal. No way to get it back.
What would happen if we, in every part of our lives, took time to breathe, to pause, to take time to respond and see what happens? Where is the silence in our lives that gives us space to trust in the One who speaks in the silence and guides us in how we respond?
While there are times we need to respond quickly, there are other times when its best to slow down, take a few breaths, offer a prayer, and then act. Stop and listen and pray today.
Edward Goode
Pray
God, I am listening to you in this place of rest.
Amen.
Go
Stop.
Take a few breaths. Take a few more.
Listen.
Wait.
Pray.
Respond.
