Conversation

I have a daily calendar given to me as a gift a few years ago. My brother and sister-in-law gave me this calendar because they thought I would enjoy all the quotes displayed on it written by women for women. There is a quote offered each day. I have been reusing this calendar for a couple years now, and it sits on my desk so I can look at it every day. Today’s quote grabbed me:

“Good communication is as stimulating as black coffee, and just as hard to sleep after. ”

The quote was offered by Anne Morrow Lindbergh, the wife of Charles Lindbergh, an American aviator.

If you have ever seen photos of the couple, they were a handsome pair. They were jet setters of their era in that they went on frequent exploratory flights together. I wonder what conversations preceded and followed those amazing feats. History tells us the Lindberghs had a baby son kidnapped and murdered and although there are theories still present as to what actually happened to that dear child, I can only imagine the conversations that ensued during and after such a tragedy. Whatever conversations took place, I suspect they were conversations as eye opening as a cup of coffee.

Have you ever had sleepless nights as a result of a conversation? More deeply, have you had sleepless nights IN conversation–perhaps with God?

I believe God would have it that way. If we are going to be up in the middle of the night, we should choose to keep company with God over racing thoughts, dull TV or browsing the internet or staring at the ceiling. If we have excitement to share, run to prayer. If we have inquiries throughout the day, why not include God in such explorations?

God yearns to hear from us. Our heavenly father cherishes our thoughts and our willingness to share them with him. True confession: to God is not often where I go first when I want to have a conversation. I would choose to talk to a friend, text a loved one or make a phone call first. Darn! Missed opportunity on my part. Why not go to God first? I am not sure. I will admit there is some exhilaration and validation that occur in conversation with a friend or loved one.

Does it not feel inclusive when I only talk to God?

Does God feel that way about conversations with me?

Does he wish I spoke up more –to him rather than to others? If so, I worry I am leaving God out of some of my most important conversations! Prayer is our conversation with God. It often feels one way, doesn’t it? How may I feel differently? How may I learn otherwise? How will I work to make it a two-way rewarding experience for both God and for me?

Today, this is my prayer.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)