When the Zoo in Your Head Gets Loud

"The interior life, that is the inward life of the spirit is not a place that is taken by storm or violence. That inward kingdom, that realm within you, is a place of peace, it can only be gained by love." Madame Guyon

“Many voices ask for our attention. There is a voice that says, 'Prove that you are a good person.' Another voice says, 'You’d better be ashamed of yourself.' There also is a voice that says, 'Nobody really cares about you,' and one that says, 'Be sure to become successful, popular, and powerful.' But underneath all these often very noisy voices is a still, small voice that says, 'You are My Beloved, My favor rests on you.' That’s the voice we need most of all to hear. To hear that voice, however, requires special effort; it requires solitude, silence, and a strong determination to listen." Henri Nouwen

My friend Donna introduced me to the children's book The Rabbit Listened. In it, little Taylor faces a tough time. One by one, different animals come by with suggested ways to cope. Instead of helping, each one left Taylor feeling a little more alone. None of their voices was helpful. Until, of course, the rabbit quietly sidled up next to Taylor, and the child sensed its gentle presence. C.S. Lewis said, "A children's story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children's story in the slightest." This sweet story illustrated a simple reminder of the nature of God's presence.

For the last two weeks, Beth and I have been writing about listening, about really hearing. The problem with listening is that we first have to get quiet ourselves. And therein lies the trouble! We're so full of the zoo of voices, we aren't available to the Holy Spirit's gentle presence. To quiet our insides, we need a "listening rabbit" for ourselves first. 

If you're like me and Taylor, you've got a riotous raucous of accusations and demands. It's awful. And so very unhelpful. These extended days of isolation have brought new exhaustion, and somehow the animals get louder as I get more tired. My zoo needs a "come-to-Jesus moment" in the best--and worst--way. Coming to sit with Someone who is patient, kind, and keeps no record of wrongs gently hushes the voices. When Someone simply comes to be with you--without judgment or agenda--the voices quell.

Only love transforms. Not screaming back. Not trying harder. Not shaming.

Give it try. The next time the riotous animals interrupt your listening for the still small voice calling you beloved, imagine Jesus sitting beside them. Imagine the kindness of God offering His warm presence, like a listening rabbit. Let His gentleness quiet you with His love. 

JUDY