Sabbath Devotional :: Silence: Your Soul Needs It!

I saw this sign touring a historic church: “Silence. Welcome to the church. A room for prayer and silence. So try to be off-line for 5 minutes. Your soul needs it!” At first I was dismayed because further signs clarified: no photos allowed (of the historic statues!), no recording (of the resonant evensong organ music!).

However, there is a gift in putting down the screen. I thought of the Hebrew word “selah” which is often found in various Psalms (71 times, in fact). It’s a musical term, indicating a pause (although its exact meaning is debated). This reverent biblical verse came to mind: “The Lord is in his holy temple, let all the earth keep silence before him” (Habakkuk 2:20).

So for this Sabbath devotional, I want to offer you that same gift. Silence, selah. Instead of spending five minutes reading this piece, set a timer and turn off the screen. Close your eyes and find silence for a few moments.

Selah.