I try to begin everyday with a time of quiet meditation.  Taking the time to sit in stillness and reflection is a vital part of my relationship with my Creator.  It is during my embrace of the silence that I am able to breathe in the awesomeness of something that is so much bigger than anything I know.  I talk about the practice, and will every now and then share some insight, but do not go into much detail about the moments, because for the most part they are private – between me and my Maker.

What I will tell you is that they are an essential and important part to my being able to do the things that I do.  I am not a perfect person.  I am just a man with all of the challenges and flaws that come with being one.  I understand where Paul was coming from, when he said:  “The things I want to do, I don’t and the things I don’t want to do, I do!”  This seems to be an ongoing battle in my life.  This is one of the things that has taught and encouraged me to not be judgmental, but more accepting and loving.

During these still moments with God at the beginning of the day, He speaks with me.  He reminds me that I am loved, forgiven, restored and on purpose.  With mercy, He empties my life of guilt and pain and with grace He fills my life with hope and promise.  What begins in still quietness, often erupts in rejoicing and celebration.

It is almost impossible to spend time in His presence and not walk away with Joy!  He has set me free from death and the grave and blessed me with an eternal inheritance.  I cannot help but to sing out loud with gratitude:  

“His grace is amazing, it washes my sins away.  His love is overwhelming, it gives me a place to stay.  I am rescued, redeemed and rejuvenated by His grace and through His love.  My quiet stillness erupts in song to my great God and King, Who is more than worthy of worship and praise.  May my life lived for You today, bring blessings to all around and glory to my Savior and Friend!”