Soul Food : Listen!

liSTen!

The most common thing we do when we pray is talk, talk and talk. We tend to beg for the graces that we need. The most common prayer that we do is a prayer of petition. Somehow, it has been the easiest way for us to pray.

However, we usually forget that prayer is a two-way communication. It is a dialogue. We cannot call prayer a dialogue if we do not give God the chance to speak in the silence of our hearts. We fail to remember the words of the boy Samuel in the temple: “Speak Lord, your servant is listening.” Oftentimes, we change it to: “Listen, Lord, your servant is speaking.”

In these modern times, most people would like to do the talking. They would prefer to be heard than to be the one who listens. Besides, listening is not that easy. It demands a form of discipline to the one who is listening. Somehow, listening has now become a commodity — something that is difficult to find.

But wouldn’t it be better if we let God do the talking? Besides, God knows what is best for us. He clearly knows what would be helpful and what would be harmful for us. If only we would let God speak to our hearts, then His will may not be that obscure for us.

Let us not be afraid, then, to turn our hearts to God. He is more than willing to listen to us but we must not forget that we must also let God do the talking. Besides, His ways are better than us.

In this season of Lent, we are being asked to listen more and talk less. In this age wherein people have no time to listen, let us take the extra step to give a listening ear. To give time for people who are asking for a little attention. Who knows?

Maybe God would speak to us through a friend in need. But if we let that opportunity pass, God may not have another time to talk to us. And maybe, we won’t have another time to silence our hearts. Fr. Joel O. Jason

Reflection Question:

Am I a listening person? How generous am I with my time dedicated to prayer? Have I listened to God lately?

Loving Father, You have listened to my groaning and appeals. Help me open my heart so that I may listen to Your loving will. Open my ears that I, too, may listen to my brothers and sisters in need. Amen.