GIFTS FROM SILENCE

The gifts we receive from the Holy Spirit in silence as we pray and meditate is just that: gifts. They are nothing we can demand or contrive. We can only receive and even that is a choice. These gifts are coming to us by revelation, illumination and inspiration from the giver of gifts.

Helen Prejean CSJ noted, “Writing is like praying, because you stop all other activities, descend into silence, and listen patiently to the depths of your soul, waiting for true words to come. When they do, you thank God because you know the words are a gift, and you write them down as honestly and cleanly as you can.”

It seems to me that gifts given in silence from the Holy Spirit assure us so we can be certain that “every good gift and every perfect gift comes down from the Father of lights” as the apostle James wrote. This helps us eliminate any idea that we are getting any of our big hot dog ideas all on our own. If they are ours… it is pretty obvious to all.

“These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you.  But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” Jesus