Closet Fuji

Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always to the end of the age."

The above was said while the disciples were on the mountain with Jesus. He called them up there for instruction. When we commune with God on our "mountain" (closet, porch swing, bed, locked bathroom) we receive instruction. We are filled up (Matthew 5) as we talk with God (Mark 6:46). I see the importance of the mountain top in a new and fresh way. I want to be there daily.

My mountain is in my closet. I have a generously sized closet. I grab my Bible, journal, pillow, and a pen and head in there. Often the journey to get there can be tough, like climbing a mountain. When I crawl (literally) out of bed I risk waking our youngest who is very sensitive to my presence, especially when it is missing. She's exceptionally needy in the morning and if she wakes, the mountain waits. I have to choose carefully whether I will tell my other kids where I am going. On one hand they are old enough to know not to disturb me but on the other, they will know where I am. My bathroom doesn't lock, so it's not an option. It requires a certain level of discipline to get there each morning but as I have been observing the events of my life post mountain times I realize discipline is also a product of that time.

This is not meant to be an exercise in legalism or works based theology. Often when I have been admonished to be in God's word, pray without ceasing, and have a quiet time I have counted my success in that area as meaning I was pleasing to God. Consequently, I saw my failure to be faithful in these areas as a personal offense against God.

So how has that changed for me? I now see "quiet time" as relationship building time. What brings us joy when we are with others? Singing, dancing, laughing, reading, talking, or being quiet and still together? Do these things with God daily. I like to talk (and write), so I take joy in sharing my thoughts with God and knowing he is listening. I take joy in knowing there is a time of the day set aside for me to pour my heart out and have undivided attention. I do listen, and pray, and read the word during those times. The desire for those things comes out of knowing God is listening to me and will always give me wise counsel through his word and prayer.