Over the years, I’ve had some hermit type, desert spirituality type forays into solitude. There is a psychological movement that occurs in solitude. At some point in each of us an existential fear will arise. It’s real, and it’s a challenge.
Jesus went into the desert alone, and what did He find there? The enemy ready to tempt and destroy Him. We, likewise, will confront a certain threatening darkness when we are alone in the desert.
Solitary confinement in prison, “the hole,” humbles the most rebellious prisoner. It’s no joke. Throw in a little sleep deprivation, and you’ll have human jello in no time.
So, could I go 36 hours? Yes, I’ve done it, and much more, but I will say that it has challenges. I tended to face a small hurdle 24 hours in to it, then later things could get interesting “out of nowhere” in a moment’s time.
Best to enter the challenge with humility and courage.
