shh . . .

silence is the simple stillness of the individual under the Word of God. we are silent before hearing the Word because our thoughts are already directed to the Word, as a child is quiet when he enters his father's room. we are silent after hearing the Word because the Word is still speaking and dwelling within us. we are silent at the beginning of the day because God should have the first word, and we are silent before going to sleep because the last word belongs to God. we keep silence solely for the sake of the Word, and therefore not in order to show disregard for the Word but rather to honor and receive it.

silence is nothing else but waiting for God's Word and coming from God's Word with a blessing.

--bonhoffer, "the day alone", life together