SLOW COOKIN'

Mark 4:21-25

Things are hidden only to be revealed at a later time ... Listen carefully to what you hear. vv. 22,24

Jesus taught with parables that he learned by observing nature and people while hearing God speak to him through the created world. This required silence. This required solitude. This required patience.

SLOW DOWN AND OBSERVE!

Today's world is in such a hurry! When we want to learn God's word we sit down and read it in a book, or hear it on a tape, or see it in a movie. While these things are good, alone they do not impart the richness of God's word.

I have learned many of the deeper truths of Jesus and the church by spending long hours alone in the woods or by observing the ordinary affairs of life. This is not something that just happens, it requires discipline and is intentional. I have learned things of God by observing the flowing of a creek, the growing of a tree, the falling of snow and rain, as well as by observing people planting a garden or constructing a building, as well as falling in love. The Spirit has used these ordinary things of life to speak extraordinary truths to the depths of my soul.

HEAR & SEE THE LIVING WORD OF GOD

Jesus spent much time alone in prayer and contemplation. Mark wrote: "He stayed in desert places; yet people kept coming to him from all sides," and: "he went off to a lonely place in the desert; there he was absorbed in prayer" (Mk 1:45,35). Luke observed, "He often retired to deserted places and prayed" (Lk 5:16). Likewise, from the stories Jesus told, it is obvious that he knew the ordinary working of people very well.

No doubt, God's word comes to us in Scripture, but we also need the instruction of the Spirit as we observe life happenings. (Jn 16:13; Mt 10:19, 20). This comes about when we make time for deep silent contemplation. This is difficult for our "instant breakfast" and "fast food" culture to do. But it is worthwhile. I urge go to take the time to listen and observe. Be patient. Then you will hear and see the living word of God. Then you will know the fullness of the Good News.

John Michael Talbot