Listening in the Silence

The only consistent noises were the birds chirping just outside the window which framed the rising sun and the sounds of metal scraping the sides of glass, in a uniform circular motion. Silent truly meant silent. Between strangers, not a word was spoken, nor were introductions given; except the subtle nod of acknowledgement showing we all understood - this was a shared sacred space. Whatever one’s background might be, this was a welcoming place for all sojourners, disciples, critics, and skeptics.

Gethsamane is situated just outside of Bardstown, Kentucky. Offering self-guided retreats, it is known as the oldest continuously operated Trappist monastery in the United States. I am sitting in the dining room, munching on my oatmeal while sipping a cup of coffee. There is nothing planned for the day, aside from attending None, (one of the seven prayer services of the day) visiting the book shop, journaling, and going for a stroll. 

Underneath the simplicity found within these grounds, there exists a metanarrative which propels all of creation forwards. It binds a group of strangers who are coming together to encounter God. For some it will be the first time, for others it has been awhile, and for a few it becomes a time to simply listen to the voice of God in the ever growing cacophonous world.  Truth be told, we can find the answer to many of our questions by simply observing the world around us; listening to the movements of the day, without regard to what comes next. It’s simply important to remain in the moment. 

Monasticism and asceticism isn’t for everyone though. Having the same routine, day in and day out would certainly be dull for many. However, there can be something said of the intentionality behind building a routine that seeks to encounter God in the most basic of ways. Anna, a prophetess mentioned in the New Testament:

Luke 2:36-38

36 And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, 37 and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

Anna is not a monastic in the traditional sense but the concept of never leaving the temple, after facing the loss of her husband, shows where her mind was. She had sold out to a life of worship, prayer, and fasting which led her to an important realization - Jesus was the Christ and redemption was on the horizon. This sort of illumination seems obvious but can easily be missed if we get too lost in the kerfuffle. May take a moment today, pause and pay close attention to the rhythms of daily life. 

Peace to you,

Rev. Taylor Kibler