“…God sent the angel Gabriel…to a virgin pledged to be married. The virgin’s name was Mary.”
Luke 1:26-27

I must confess, it’s very hard for me to cultivate quiet time into my day, especially around Christmas. I usually get up for my quiet time – but often the rest of the day can feel like a free-for-all.

There’s a reason I may be feeling this way. It’s found tucked away in three little scriptures. The Holy Spirit seemed to illuminate the fact that when Gabriel came to visit Mary, she was alone.

I wonder what she was doing prior to being interrupted by Gabriel. Where were her thoughts? Don’t forget – she was in the midst of planning a wedding. Weddings were a huge deal. Quite often, the whole town would be invited. (Can you imagine?!) Had she been:

• Booking a caterer?
• Determining the guest list?
• Ordering invitations?
• Keeping track of the bridesmaids and determining what they would wear?
• Dreaming if what her life would soon be with this wonderful man?

Life was busy and full. Yet we see Mary valued quiet moments alone despite the hectic nature that her circumstances mandated. Because Mary cultivated quietness in her life, she put herself in a position for God to speak into the recesses of her heart.

How often do I miss what God wants to share with me because the radio is blaring in my car? Or because I won’t get off the phone long enough for Him to share His thoughts for me or my future direction?

Instead of filling every quiet moment alone with a phone call, checking email, Facebook or Instagram, watching TV, or listening to the radio; let’s be intentional about cultivating quiet space in our day.

Mary’s example is one to follow. I wonder if God would have moved on to someone else if He couldn’t have gotten Mary’s attention because she allowed her life to be so full that she had too little time to pay attention to His voice…

Cultivate quietness into your day. There is no telling what the Lord may share with you.