There is nothing quite like receiving a gift—especially those gifts we did not ask for and did not see coming. Young or old, rich or poor, culture to culture, it is all the same. Without hesitation, the mental checklist begins with how to get the most use out of what has been handed to us to change us for the better.
For example, years ago, I was handed a set of tools my late grandfather used for many projects around the house. Every time I set my eyes on them, my mind goes to what needs there are around my own home and the joy of completing them with this gift.
A more recent example comes from my home church who gave a gift to a ministry partner we have in East Africa. The gift they gave will provide much-needed resources to a few thousand people for the coming months. In either situation, the one receiving the gift received joy that was immediate. Transformation through joy resounds.
An Unexpected Joy
Trying to find joy in modern times, at the height of Covid19 is challenging at best. This week, I’ve learned of 2 families in my church who have lost jobs and others who have families and friends directly affected by this wretched virus. On the horizon, there will undoubtedly be even more families with lost loved ones, jobs, and additional unknown hurdles.
The jury is still out on how Christians will engage society when we see Covid19 in the rear-view mirror. Currently, my church has been providing meals and supplies to local hospitals and COVID-19 testing sites, developing an ongoing food drive, and encouraging church members to check in with their neighbors. These examples are just a few of the many impactful ways that we have sought out serving opportunities. We are thankful that technology has allowed us to worship at some level.
“The power of being transformed by taking quiet-filled moments to listen will lead us to recognize unprecedented joy.”
There is no denying that the rejoicing will be immeasurable when we are able to physically worship together again. Stories will be told of how we sought ways to serve each other even when physical connection is discouraged. The reality of communities becoming more tight-knit has legitimate potential.
However, let's be aware of the trends of Western culture. Often after difficult situations that have caused life-changing interruptions, we tend to run toward our own independent direction for the purpose of claiming personal victory over that struggle. During this season, the church has an opportunity instead to lean in on a value that does not come often—finding joy in the stillness and remaining there.
The Power of Stillness
At the present moment in the local American church, being still is coming with relative ease. The question that is being continually asked is: when will this quarantine end. There are valid points on seeking “a light at the end of the tunnel.” But have we allowed Christ to use this moment of stillness to truly transform us from where we once were? The late Jim Elliott once said:
“I think the devil has made it his business to monopolize on three elements: noise, hurry, crowds. If he can keep us hearing radios, gossip, conversation, or even sermons, he is happy. But he will not allow quietness…Satan is quite aware of the power of silence.”[1]
Elliot’s comments should speak volumes to us all if any gift is to be discovered in this situation. What if we started asking ourselves what length we are willing to go to remain in a silence that forces us to listen? The power of being transformed by taking quiet-filled moments to listen will lead us to recognize unprecedented joy. This untapped resource of silence will guide us closer to the Spirit who uses even the worst of circumstances for God’s glory.
Embracing the Moment
“Our desire to make the loudest noise will make a fraction of the impact that unified calm and stillness can give. It will be our greatest strength.”
The very nature of Christianity is founded on being counter-cultural. Resisting the noise for stillness is an example of this. We are called to be consumed with the Lord’s lovingkindness and compassion and take it to the world.
Believer, be ready for a spiritual transformation that will go farther than you are willing or think you are prepared for. Our desire to make the loudest noise will make a fraction of the impact that unified calm and stillness can give. It will be our greatest strength.
If we are faithful and embrace the stillness in this time and beyond, we are bound to see Christ take something filled with deep tragedy and transform it into something where he is able to shine brighter.
For those that follow him, do not lose heart. The ultimate gift Christ has given has not lessened us in any way. Take a minute to be still, be strengthened by it, and use it to be transformed. Share this gift freely with those around you, and they will be refreshed and encouraged with what they have received.
Chris Hall is the Associate Pastor of Missions & Mobilization at Houston Northwest Baptist Church.
