January 20, 2023 – “Listening”

“He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” ² So he said to them, “When you pray, say:

Father, may your name be revered as holy.
    May your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread.
And forgive us our sins,  for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us.
    And do not bring us to the time of trial.”” Luke 11:1-4

How do you hear G-d calling you? This is one of the most important questions a Christian can ask him or herself. Why? Because if we do not hear the voice of G-d calling us, how do we know that we are the right path in our walk with G-d? Now I can hear some of you contemplating the question “What does it feel like or look like to hear G-d’s voice?” Well, now that is a great question. Some will hear the voice of G-d through a situation that happens in front of them, and a sense of acting upon that situation will come upon them. In other words, we can be called by G-d through the situations we encounter on a day-to-day basis.

We can also be called by G-d through the appeals of others to do, or act, or give, or help. G-d may call us to serve at a food pantry, read the lessons at church, or plan a meal for a loved one. It does not have to be an audible voice, for we may even hear that still, small voice of G-d internally, voicing a direction or a path for ministry. So what is most important? Listening for the voice, the urge, the sense of direction. We need to be certain that we take the time to quiet our minds, so we can hear the voice of G-d. And, do not be surprised when G-d calls you when you least expect it.

Let us pray: Dear G-d, help me to quiet my mind today so I may hear your voice, your calling, your direction. Amen.

Pastor Dave