The Environment Of Love.

But the one who practices the truth comes to the light, so that it may be plainly evident that his deeds have been done in God. (John 3:21, NET)

Yet Jesus Himself frequently withdrew to the wilderness and prayed. (Luke 5:16, NET)

In yesterday's sermon, Pastor Shane shared with us from the gospels of John and Luke. Continuing our Lenten theme of meditations on the love of God, our pastor took time to speak on the discipline of solitude as a means of growing in love.

Solitude serves as a catalyst for the expression of authentic love. Pastor Shane noted that solitude does two things. Solitude allows us time alone with God so that 1) we might learn of Him, and that 2) we might learn His perspective concerning people we meet. As we learn to see in the way God sees, we are more able to love in the way God loves.

I take encouragement from the stories told of Susanna Wesley, the mother of several children including Methodism founders John and Charles Wesley. An oft-repeated detail of her life tells that she would sit in her kitchen and cover her head with her apron, Bible in hand, and engage in prayer and solitude. Her children, when they saw her head covered, knew not to disturb her.

Perhaps we do not have the privilege of being able to leave town for a retreat, or even to take a short walk in the park. But my prayer is that God will help each of us to engage this discipline of solitude. We develop intimacy by getting away from the crowds and spending time with the one we have grown to love. God loves you and wants you to develop intimacy with Him.

Will you get away from the crowds today?

Lord God my Father, as I spend time alone with You, please show me Your perspective; please develop in me Your compassion; please teach me of Your love.