In the quietness of the pre-dawn, Singapore is still sleeping. The roads are quiet. I can sit with the panels open and feel a gentle breeze that is running south to north. You can feel the anticipation of what the day will bring. Everything is on an edge, albeit a silent one. Something is going to happen, soon. “When” is the question that will find its answer in time and actions.
I wonder what it is like for God. Is there a moment, if only a portion of a second, where nobody is praying and asking for something? Is there a moment where there are no praises and sounds coming from earth? If so, is this what God wants? Does God need a break from the constant demands, wining, and commentary?
In the silence of the morning, I can imagine God in silence wondering where everyone went. Did they lose interest? Is this the reality of people no longer caring? Given what it at stake, how does one wake this population up and help each see what they could be theirs?
The reflection takes an odd turn as I realize there are times where one revels in silence. Equally true, there are times where one hopes for the knock on the door, the ring of the telephone, and the voice to break the stillness. Patience is rarely a virtue either side appreciates in this circumstance.
As I think of others who have reflected in the quietness, I smile at David’s note. “I call to you, God, because I’m sure of an answer. So – answer! bend your ear! listen sharp!” (Psalm 17.6)
Chop chop! Hurry hurry! I called you answer.
I wonder if God reacts as I do, knowing it is easier for me to answer a familiar voice than one I do not recognize. I was recently out with friends when I heard familiar voice making a request. There was no urgency. There was no demand. It was from one heart to another. Answering yes and putting the help into action was an easy decision.
