Jesus had just told the disciples what awaited him in Jerusalem. The disciples said nothing about this. Instead, they immediately moved on to their own ambitions of who amongst them was the greatest. Jesus noticed but waited for the right time to respond. This is once again met with silence.
Conversations are sometimes punctuated with
silences, and those silences can be either helpful or hurtful. Silence can indicate that everyone is pondering what has just been said or is simply comfortable being in each other’s company. These are good silences that speak of warmth, respect and love. Someone may choose to be silent to formulate a helpful response or because they do not wish to embarrass the other. This, too, is an act of love.
Silence can indicate shock, horror, or
a lack of words to respond to what has been heard. Love can still be shown in this space through what happens next. The disciples simply moved on without acknowledging Jesus' pain. Jesus saved the disciples' pain by responding when the time was right.
Silence is sometimes a sign of guilt. This is seen in the disciples’ response to the question, “What were you arguing about?” Yet even in this, Jesus loves them by taking the
conversation to a space of growth and renewal rather than rebuke and emotional outburst.
How have you experienced silence in your interactions with others?
Remember moments of warmth, comfort and renewal? Give thanks to God for these.
Remember when silence brought pain, disempowerment or loneliness? Bring these moments to God for
healing.
When might you have been too quick to speak? Ask God for the grace of loving communication.
What have your experiences been of sitting in silence with God?
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Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
