'The invitation to solitude and silence ... is an invitation to enter more deeply into the intimacy of relationship with the One who waits just outside the noise and busyness of our lives. It is an invitation to communication and communion with the One who is always present even when our awareness has been dulled by distraction. It is an invitation to the adventure of spiritual transformation in the deepest places of our being, an adventure that will result in greater freedom and authenticity and surrender to God than we have yet experienced.
God's invitation is a winsome one, but it is not casual; it is an invitation from His very heart to the depths of our being. It warrants serious consideration because it is an invitation to a journey, a quest, really, for something we have been longing for all our lives ... this journey requires a willingness to say goodbye to life as we know it because our heart is longing for something more.
When we embark on such a journey, we understand there will be challenges along the way, unexpected encounters that stretch us to our limits and change the shape of who we are. We know we will emerge changed, bearing the marks of the journey on our soul ...'
- Ruth Haley Barton, Invitation to Solitude and Silence
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Ruth Haley Barton is one of my all-time favorite mentoring authors ... her writings on women in ministry, solitude and silence, and leadership discernment have impacted me big time. Each of her soul-deep books grace my shelves and her insightful words have offered hope, conviction, and direction along the way.
If you read one book this month ... or the rest of this year, Invitation to Solitude & Silence would be it. It's that life-changing.
& ...
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What a great quote, Linda. I also love the photos you are including with your 31 Days series ... so peaceful and appropriate for what you are writing. On a completely unrelated topic, I just read "The Shell Seekers" (based on your recent recommendation) and enjoyed it very much (especially the ending)!
ReplyDeleteIt was a super book, wasn't it! I read the next book she wrote, but it just didn't satisfy like The Shell Seekers, even though some of the same characters popped up here and there ...
DeleteAnd thanks for your encouraging words about the photos, Lois. I so appreciate that they're sending the message I aim to send ...
Lovely, Friend. Peace drawing--mind stretching---Jesus seeking!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Yes. Always seeking more of who He is. I need Him so ...
DeleteWow, that's quite an endorsement! It's now on my "wish list" Good stuff for this soul journey. . .
ReplyDeleteIt was an absolute shock, June. Trust me. Sheer shock!
DeleteI love solitude and there are times I crave it deeply It is a beautiful place for my soul to rest. Thank you for the recommendation of a new author. The book sounds like a beauty. Thanks for drawing me into your peaceful place today.
ReplyDeleteCrave's the word, especially if we've been missing out on ithose solitary hours for whatever reason. It comes easier to introverts than extroverts, but the call is still the same ...
DeleteI'm glad you're finding it peaceful here, Mary. Truly!
I think I will check this book out. It seems like my kind of read.
ReplyDeleteIt's one of my all time favorites. A real game-changer in my relationship with God.
DeletePlease let me know how it impacts you, Kara, ok?
You are adding books to my very big pile on the nightstand. :)
ReplyDelete...and I subscribe on Feedly, so can I get the worksheets via e-mail (pretty please).
Please send your email address to me, Lyli ... I can't seem to locate it!
Deletelindastoll@juno.com
Hi there! I popped over from Emily Freeman's "for your weekend" post and I'm excited to be adding you to my list of 31 Day series! There's something very calming about your writing voice and your images. Looking forward to more from you!
ReplyDeleteWelcome, Lisa! I'm so glad you've joined us. If there's any calm around here it's because God is right in the midst of it all.
DeleteLooking forward to getting to know you in the days ahead!
;-}
Peace and love your way! :)
ReplyDeleteAnd circling right back to you, dear Lux!
DeleteHave a great one ...
That whole 2nd paragraph ... expressed so well. <3
ReplyDeleteYou've showed us how to live that out this past year, Beth ... the way you've responded to God's invitations has modeled something oh-so-good for those of us who are fortunate enough to be in your life.
DeleteBlessings, friend!
;-}
This book sounds great! Thanks for the recommendation! =)
ReplyDeleteCiara ... thanks for taking the time to say 'hi'! I'd love to hear your impressions after you read the book!
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