Pam's Perambulation

Ah, listening – that old chestnut!  Did you actually hear what I said??  It is perfectly possible to be present, and to hear nothing of what is said, or to hear the noise, but not register the words, or even to hear the words, but do nothing about it.  Sometimes you even get an apparent response to what is said, but when later questioned on why nothing has happened any recollection is denied.

You can see I have vast experience of this!!  And yet.. am I any different?

• Do I even hear God speak?  Is there so much noise in my life that I can’t hear?  Am I just not paying attention?
• Do I hear God say something, but do nothing about it?  Am I too wrapped up in me and my problems?  Do I not see the point?  Am I distracted by something else?
• Do I respond to God’s voice, but then forget?  Or get too busy?
• Do I even give God the chance to speak?  Do I never stop still long enough? Do I let him get a word in my chatter?

Lord,

I stop,

and listen.

There is so much to be heard,

when I stop making a noise.

And so,

today,

I purposely take time

to hear your voice,

not what I think you’re saying,

but to really listen

to what you have to say to me.

And as I listen,

may I allow your words

to sink into me,

allow them to touch me,

to shape me,

to challenge me.

Then I respond

The Good Shepherd

This year for Advent, some friends and I are using Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Henri J. M. Nouwen.   You’re welcome to join us on this journey.  Feel free to comment here, or on Twitter using #adventbookclub

~ by pamjw on December 13, 2012.

Posted in Advent, Advent Book Club, God, Religion, theology
Tags: #adventbookclub, Advent, hear, listen