The late Old Testament scholar Walter Brueggemann argues that the story of Pharaoh in Exodus represents a system of oppression sustained not only by violence, but by endless, anxious labor. When life is organized around constant productivity, there is little space to pause, reflect, or ask: what is all this striving really for?

Sabbath became “the organizing principle” for the Hebrews, a way God taught Israel how to order their lives. In the midst of nonstop news, deadlines, and constant noise, we are invited into that same rest through the practice of stillness this Lent.

Lent has always been about turning again toward God. Stillness quiets our minds and settles our bodies so we can make space for God. Practices like fasting, prayer, and almsgiving are not ends in themselves; they shape our desire for God and God’s purposes in our world.

This Lent, we invite you to cultivate stillness through one of four practices: a meditative walk, creation care, fasting, or creative practice. If a practice does not help you become more attentive to God’s presence, you are invited to set it aside and try another.

Maybe stillness looks like a few deep breaths in your car after a chaotic school drop-off, feeling the sun or rain on your face during your work commute, or savoring the last bites of a good meal. Anything can become a practice of stillness when it is treated as sacred.

Choose one, practice it alongside others, and give yourself permission to be imperfect. The goal is consistency, not perfection. Ultimately, the invitation is to rest and receive from God again, trusting that this is enough.

in community,

 Joshua