Perhaps one of the most precious and powerful gifts we can give another person is to really listen to them, to listen with quiet, fascinated attention, with our whole being, fully present. This takes presence within and a stance of self-control. Where we moderate our own thoughts, perspectives, and agendas and empty ourselves to create space and holy ground, this is sacred listening.
How often do I take this stance with my own heart? Where I moderate my need to do and achieve and surrender to just being? Do I keep just pushing through life hoping that inspiration will miraculously land in my direction? It is times like these, when I feel dry and meh, that I need to listen to the dullness of my own heart. I need to moderate my tendency to deny “nothing is wrong, “everything is ok”, and read the signs. As I acknowledge my needs, my wants, and desires, I’m creating holy ground. Prayer invites God into the equation and I’m met with compassion and love inspiring me to greater heights of living. This sacred listening leads me to joy and God’s goodness.
Let us ask ourselves: When I start my day, do I throw myself headlong into the things to be done, or do I first seek inspiration in the Word of God? At times we begin the day automatically, we start doing things … like hens. No. We must start the day by first of all looking to the Lord, taking his Word, briefly, but allowing this to be the inspiration for the day. If we leave the house in the morning keeping a word of Jesus in mind, the day will surely acquire a tone marked by that word, which has the power to orient our actions according to the Lord’s wishes.
Pope Francis, Angelus ~ July 17, 2022
Thank you Lord for the power of listening to Your living word and the yearnings of my heart.
Smitten With Goodness 