Lent is quieter than Advent.
Yet, both seasons, remind me of these simple words from Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.”
When I think about the life of Jesus, especially during the time of his disciples, he had to search for quiet moments and stillness.
Finding quietness and stillness in our busy and often loud world isn’t easy today.
However, in my stillness, I’m often drawn to think about the humble and meek. These people have quietly given of themselves to serve others.
My 31 years of work in public schools connected me with many kind hearts who could cool down an agitated parent, communicate with a challenging student, and lift morale when the school day weighed us down.
On mission trips, I’ve experienced the same understated leadership where individuals met the needs of volunteers, homeowners, and building suppliers in demanding environments.
In the church where I work, I appreciate the volunteers who work behind the scenes to ensure that a community event, worship service, or funeral goes well.
On a quiet, gray, dreary day during Lent, be still and reflect on the meek and humble who have impacted your life. Within minutes, a drab day will brighten.
That’s because these unselfish servants have “it’s not- about- me” hearts. They have hearts like Jesus. They sacrifice for the good of all.
Prayer: During the stillness of Lent, remind us of the people with “it’s not about me” hearts who have touched our lives. Amen
Bill Pike
Richmond, Virginia
Note from the author: Honored to have this devotional published in the 2026 Daily Lenten Devotions for the Society of St. Andrew.
might be baloney 