Quiet Zone

The sense of sight is, of course, important in nature photography. In fact, it is essential. But there is another sense that also plays a significant role when I’m working outdoors with my camera: Listening.

The gurgling of water flowing over rocks indicates that a cascade is nearby.

“Rat-tat-tat” in the overhead canopy alerts me to the presence of a woodpecker.

The tympanic rumble of thunder or the pit-a-pat of raindrops on leaves
warns me that I need to pack up my gear and head back to the car.

Listening and hearing are often noted in Scripture as important attributes in the life of faith. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke relate the event of the Transfiguration. Jesus took Peter, James, and John up on a high mountain. Jesus’ appearance was suddenly transformed. His face shone like the sun and his clothes became dazzlingly white. Moses and Elijah, Old Testament prophets, appeared and began talking with Jesus. (See Matthew 17:1-5; Mark 9:2-7; Luke 9:28-35.) Of the six humans present, four of them spoke. But the words of only one of them were recorded for us: Peter. Yes, that Peter. The disciple who, at times, evidenced remarkably astute, insightful faith. But on other occasions made us think he could have been the original recipient of the advice, “Hey, put your mind into gear before you put your mouth into motion.”

After Peter witnessed the miracle on the mount and then proposed his construction project of three memorials, another Voice spoke: The Lord Almighty. God said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.”

For everything there is a season,
A time to be quiet and a time to speak.

– Ecclesiastes 3:1a,7b (New Living Translation)

What I’ve discovered is that it is pretty much impossible for me to talk and listen at the same time. And between these two, it’s pretty clear I need to speak less and listen more. Especially to God’s words.