At a recent committee meeting, the opening devotions focused on the simple thought of "To Listen."  Some of the thoughts shared included, "Listen to God.  Listen to all.  Refuse to interrupt, just listen.  There is a reason God gave us two ears and one mouth, we need to listen more than we talk."  At least that's what I was able to write down as the person shared.  As I heard these statements I was once again amazed at how God always knows what we need to hear.

Yes, the challenge to listen is great for all of us to remember, but on that particular evening these words meant so much more to me personally.  I had spent a couple of hours that afternoon struggling to communicate with someone who has challenged my faith and wisdom.  As time went by, I found myself struggling to listen as my mind worked to correct, contradict, and support my own beliefs.  It wasn't a very productive couple of hours.

Then I was blessed to experience the reminder of the devotional thoughts.  I was reminded to slow down, to listen intently of what's being said and seek to understand before I think about responding.  The lesson was excellent, and it's just one more example of how we are in ministry together.  I know I am a pastoral shepherd and guide of the congregation, yet once more I am aware of how people of our congregation bless me with wisodm, with love, and with Christian lessons of life.  It's a blessing to be in ministry with you.

"To Listen" is a good reminder to each of us as we journey through this Season of Lent.  readings 66-70 of the J100 focused in on the prayer of Jesus.  So many times our prayers consist of our talking to God.  Too often we say a quick prayer for the meal, because we are hungry; or we say a quick prayer at night and then hop into bed.  I know I need to stretch out my prayer time, to sit with no words being said or thought, but to sit or lie or stand, and simply listen.  I did the other night, when God spoke to me through the devotional words of another person.  May we each be blessed by listening to each other, and to the Lord.

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