Silent Support

Mark 14:61 – “But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?”
     Yesterday I gave my college students their final examination for the spring semester course. I divided the class into groups and when each section was over I briefly went over a few of the questions. While they were in test mode I remained in the room, but aloof to their eye gazes and head scratching.
     Today’s scripture illustrates that ‘silence can often be golden’. God’s handling of some of our best lessons reflects the role that teachers, instructors and exam proctors play while the test is underway. When I started the examination; my students were on their own. As they progressed through their test I remained vigilant yet silent. As we traverse through this life, we will come upon events, people or circumstances that will put us to the test. During these testing times it is not difficult to see why we might feel a bit isolated or alone.
       Just like in a typical classroom, the entire atmosphere changes while we are in test mode. The students enter the room with a sense of urgency and awe. They keep movement and talking to a minimum; turn off or mute their cell phones and listen carefully to the instructions. When we become astute to the ways of life’s tests; we too will change the atmosphere. We should talk less about our problems; shut off communication with distractions and listen to the instructions that the Holy Spirit provides. Like a good teacher, while the students are undergoing testing, God remains ever-present; watchful and silent.
      Don’t be troubled when you are in the midst of a test and you feel a bit isolated or ignored. God is not daydreaming or forgetful. He knows all about our issues; motivations and especially our outcomes. God gives us the opportunity to challenge the ‘status quo” and show him what we have learned. Make him proud. Don’t lose your focus; his quietness is just him silently rooting for you.
      Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn