Hit the pause button

I'm not sure how many of you are musicians and recognize this symbol.  It's called a fermata.  It's a signal from the composer to the conductor.  The fermata gives the conductor permission to hold a pause as long as he feels is necessary.  It's used to get the attention of those listening.  The composer includes it so the conductor can get the audience to pay attention.  To stop.  To pause.  To listen.  Really listen.

Pastor Brett's sermon theme this Advent Season is "Christmas Presence" -- a little play on words, but it is an important distinction.  As enjoyable as Christmas time is, I think we'd all agree it's a very busy time.  Perhaps we need a fermata.  Or, if you're not a musician, perhaps a Pause Button.  Perhaps we need to just stop rushing around and being so busy and...pay attention.

Advent is to Christmas what Lent is to Easter.  It's a time of preparation.  Prepare to more fully appreciate the Presence -- Immanuel.  Sometimes it's difficult to "prepare for Christmas" when you're "preparing for Christmas".  Do you get what I mean?

It will be a challenge, but this month, I am going to try use a fermata -- to hit the Pause Button if you will -- and listen.  More than likely it may be early morning or late at night.  For me, that seems to be the time when it's easiest to get alone.  It may be another time of day for you.  I know I need to stop and listen more to the Composer.  What am I too busy with that I'm not paying attention to what He's communicating?  I need to make the pause long enough -- dramatic enough -- to make a difference.

Recently, I heard mention of this (30 minute) interview on Breakpoint.  Michael Card was the guest and a number of years ago, he wrote a Christmas album, though not a traditional album.  It was interesting to hear Card's comments about the songs and the sequence.  Perhaps a quiet time of listening to the album with the Bible open would be appropriate.

You may have some other ideas that fit your schedule and life situation better.  Feel free to share them.  This may be a great forum in sharing what works for you and it may spur someone else on to use it and tweak it to fit their situation.