Running on (Spiritual) Empty

"I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty." Ruth 1:21

"So is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." Isaiah 55:11


As I got into my car today to drive to work, I noticed the empty light was on. It was one of those little signs from God, saying, "pay attention!". Not only was my car desperately needing gas, but I have been feeling desperately empty...thirsty for God, surrounded by water, and yet not taking the time to drink deeply.

From the outside, my car looks pretty good: it's reasonably clean, has new and safe winter tires on, no rust, and has just been tuned up. However, none of those are any indication of the condition of the gas tank, which is blinking orangely at me, begging me to stop for gas soon, before I get stranded. My spiritual life seems much the same: from the outside, I am going to mass, attending prayer group, preparing and teaching religion class, ministering to my family, and doing good works. I am praising and praying regularly. Yet there is an emptiness from which my soul cries "Lord, have mercy on me"....

I know that, unlike my car, periods of emptiness can be good for me. Look what God created out of emptiness (Genesis 1:2). Victory, freedom and new life emerged from an empty tomb (John 20:1). So, when I am empty of myself, God can fill me with Himself, which is a constant prayer of mine. But emptiness is uncomfortable at times....especially in our busy lives filled with assorted chaos, clutter and confusion.

I know the empty light is on for a reason though. I have not paused often enough, to rest in God's Word, to meditate on it and simply BE in His presence, listening to His Word. He has been speaking to me through His Word, but I have not been listening well and allowing His Word to accomplish what He desires.

Lord Jesus, may this period of emptiness be used to fill me with Your presence. May I become less and you become greater. Let the emptiness lead to Your creativity and new life. Strengthen me Lord, so that I may spend time in stillness and quiet, with You and Your Word, each day.