Mark 4:9
“Are you listening to this? Really listening?”
“Then he said, ‘Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.’”
We are not taught to listen as we ought. Listening well makes it possible to discern other’s point of view and read between the lines of a conversation, in print or in person. Unfortunately, there is not much evidence of this skill in public discourse. But Jesus calls his followers to develop it. It is the first step to critical thinking and discernment. May we learn to do it well.
Lord, help me to listen better to those close to me. Give me patience to stop and wait as they gather their thoughts. Help me to accurately and fairly parse other’s speech and writing. Grace me to listen to others as you faithfully listen to me.