Christmas is right around the corner and this Sunday puts its focus on two women. Our homily today centered on these women, one old and one young, who both find themselves with children of great destiny entrusted to them. Both seek solace with one another and recognize the presence of God in each other.
Most importantly, they demonstrate the often forgotten talent of listening. They are there not to preach, to judge, to condemn, to seek power, or to convert, but to listen and fulfill their roles in God's plan. Our advent stories have been full of these listeners, people who listen for God's will rather than try to claim that they already know it. They allow God to act through them rather than try to use God for their own gain.
I need to take the time to listen more. It's a skill for which I have never had a particular talent. I tend to spend the time when I am supposed to be listening instead thinking about other things, often what I plan on saying next. I think that I know what others are going to say and I fill in the blanks without giving them the time and consideration that they are due. Especially in this season of anticipation, may I learn to listen better and be more open to God's will.
Most importantly, they demonstrate the often forgotten talent of listening. They are there not to preach, to judge, to condemn, to seek power, or to convert, but to listen and fulfill their roles in God's plan. Our advent stories have been full of these listeners, people who listen for God's will rather than try to claim that they already know it. They allow God to act through them rather than try to use God for their own gain.
I need to take the time to listen more. It's a skill for which I have never had a particular talent. I tend to spend the time when I am supposed to be listening instead thinking about other things, often what I plan on saying next. I think that I know what others are going to say and I fill in the blanks without giving them the time and consideration that they are due. Especially in this season of anticipation, may I learn to listen better and be more open to God's will.
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