There are times when my students become very rambunctious, loud, and completely unfocused. I’ll attempt to ring the bell or raise my voice, but those attempts usually only add to the chaos. Then I must resort to what seems like the most unnatural thing to do – stand still, fold my hands in front of me, and simply be silent while taking the time to directly look each student in the face. And one by one, the students will calm down, sit down, and listen.

Recently my heart and mind have been in a flurry of anxious thoughts and emotions. In response to their chaotic state I have rushed to my God and demanded immediate answers. I want to know why I am always disappointed. Why can’t He tell me exactly how I should handle the frustrating situations at work? Will I be able to manage my schedule in the weeks and months ahead when things get even more hectic? And of course, I wouldn’t mind a few unexpected surprises in life that will take my breath away! When will those ever come?  Oh yeah, and why do my dreams always come true in other people’s lives? Would it end the world for me to have a few fairytale moments and happily ever after’s? Guess what? Jesus has been quite silent in response to these loud and demanding ranting sessions of mine.

Today is Good Friday (which is why I am writing early).  This is the day when my Savior gave everything He had and cried out, “IT IS FINISHED!” In that moment the entire world held its breath in silence for even God had turned His face away from the Son who was His everything. He turned His face away from Jesus and onto me, something He could never do as long as my sins stood between us. Jesus’s sacrifice dissolved the barrier.  In the silence was the answer.

Now that I pause and ponder, I think I know exactly what Jesus is doing. He is standing right by me, hands folded, looking intently in my face, waiting for me to remember what I know.