Solitude

“But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.” (Luke 5:16, NASB)

Landscape photography is more than just trying to capture pretty images to enjoy and share with others. This may be an enjoyable part of this pursuit but I think it can be a vehicle to find places to be in peaceful solitude. Often it is getting away from our chaotic day to day life for a few minutes or longer if able that can be refreshing. Some people find this solitude with fishing or simply walking on a hike. Some may choose to go on a run or bike ride and I have often used many of these as a vehicle to get alone with God.

Solitude brings focus. Solitude quiets distractions. Solitude can bring down the volume in our lives for a short period of time so that we can hear God whisper (1 Kings 19:11-13). Sometimes times of solitude may even be shared with someone close to you. This may seem contradictory but it is sometimes beneficial as we see in Mark 6:31 where Jesus took His disciples to a solitary place for rest.

In a photograph a powerful technique to focus the eyes is to isolate the subject and remove distractions that would take away from the primary meaning of the picture. This usually makes for a very quiet and calm image and permits the viewer to imagine themselves in the scene. The photo I have chosen today is actually of a friend that I was sharing time with on a weeklong backpack trip. I feel that it demonstrates the sense of calm and rest that we were able to enjoy during our own time slipping away to the wilderness to pray (and fish!).

Maybe we don’t always have the time and opportunity to escape all the way to the wilderness for days at at time but we can still create moments of solitude allow us to hear the Lord for a few moments. Take that walk or run, go and contemplate a sunset, just turn down the volume of life even for brief amounts in the day. One last thing… don’t forget the reason for the rest is to come back rested to re engage with life and those around you. In all the instances where Christ was withdrawing it was in rest and preparation to come back to those around Him to serve them. There is a difference between seeking solitude and a life of complete withdrawal.

Whatever method you choose as a vehicle of solitude don’t make the vehicle the only goal. Photos just for photos sake is an empty pursuit, running just to run faster will only make you tired and probably not ultimately fulfilled. Take the time in your solitude to talk to God or share good conversation with your loved one if you are taking the time out together. Read something beneficial or listen to uplifting music… the goal is to rest and refresh ready to serve again.