Silence and Listening

I grew up in the pentecostal tradition. Loud exuberant and emotionally charged expressions of worship were practically required. And the Gift of Speaking in Tongues (Glossolalia) was the spiritual black belt.

Sometimes I am a bit lost trying to follow along in Eastern Orthodox Liturgies. Even after being Anglo-Catholic for twenty years.

But in those times when I am unsure of where we are in the Liturgy, I am learning to simply sit, or stand; to be silent, still, and quiet.

To simply listen to prayers, scripture readings, and hymns. All chanted and sung in a contemplative way… To let the Divine Liturgy or prayer service simply wash over me…

To soak in the silence and Grace of the Holy Spirit…

Our minds, our stream of consciousness; and our emotional torrents, are always sounding an alarm! Here I am! Pay attention to me! Notice me!

But the ancient liturgies are a “deep calling to deep…”

I am learning to simply be silent. And to listen. And to during those moments of disorientation or uncertainty, to simply pray The Jesus Prayer… Quietly. Silently. With each breath or heart beat…

“Lord Jesus Christ,
Holy Son of God,
Have mercy on me,
A sinner…”