Silence Before God

Sounds blast us everywhere. On the streets. In stores. Through the media. Even in our homes. In this environment, being quiet almost seems abnormal. Yet, amid the noise, more than ever, we need to hear from God. But, to experience the fullness of His presence, we need to filter out the noise so we can hear Him clearly.

Arvo Pärt, one of today’s most acclaimed composers, grappled with this problem in music and found a solution. Born in Estonia on this day in 1935, he initially employed complicated modern techniques. After becoming dissatisfied, he entered a period of self-imposed silence, which led him to embrace a much simpler style, and a renewed commitment to his Christian faith.

Through this process of withdrawal, renewal, and reflection, Pärt found “his voice” and began to write music that has gained worldwide fame for its simplicity, the emphasis on silence, and its focus on spiritual things. Almost everything he writes is based on Biblical texts and themes.

His music is written with deceptive simplicity, filled with emotional depth. One critic commented that listening to his music “is like being in the presence of God.” A famed conductor said that his music “contains a message which appeals to the deepest spiritual needs of our time.”

Pärt discovered solid Biblical truths: making God’s presence a priority, and realizing the importance of silence. The Bible tells us, “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10).

David frequently wrote about silence. He wrote, “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7). And, “For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him” (Psalm 62:5).

Don’t let all the noise and clutter of the world distract you. Focus on seeking God’s presence. Wait on Him. Listen.