Immersed in Christ: Wednesday, June 23, 2021
Active Listening: Listening for Action
God's word is the truth that makes us free (John 8:32). But we have to respond to it. The scripture readings at Mass are meant to be an interaction between living persons. Our listening is more than just paying attention. It is a two-way act of communication between ourselves and God, a conversation that is not authentic unless we are actively engaged in it. To absorb the truth of the mind and heart of God revealed in Scripture, we have to understand how God speaks.
We listen in order to learn as disciples. We listen to proclaim as prophets. Finally, we listen as "kings" or "stewards of the kinship of Christ", who have taken on the responsibility for establishing his reign over every area and activity of human life on Earth.
We listen to learn more clearly what we are doing, why we are doing it, and how it needs to be done. This is not the listening of an "audience" sitting back and hoping something will sink in. This is the listening of avid learners (disciples) committed to seeking peace through the pursuit of truth.
Take Action: As a Disciple, a Student of Jesus, read the Gospel for Sunday's Mass several times this week and think the words. Ask the Holy Spirit for enlightenment. Make some decision to put the words into action. It need not be a big decision, just "forward progress."
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