Listening

"Let us try an experiment.  This week, as you are interacting with people, listen for the prompting of the Spirit.  As you listen to people, listen also for what the Spirit is saying.  The Holy Spirit will lead you to be with people as Jesus would be with them if he were in your place."
--John Ortberg, "The Life You've Always Wanted"

The time around Mother's Day is always an interesting time at a church.  You tend to hear the joys of being a mother, the trials of parenting, the sadnesses of those who can't have children, and the grief of those who have lost children...  And listening to the Spirit's nudgings in all of those conversations is always eye-opening and life-giving.

The Spirit offers us ways to take a break from what we are doing to clearly and honestly focus on those who speak their hearts to us.  The Spirit allows us to be open to what we are hearing - without judgement, without preconceived notions.  The Spirit gives us the heart to listen, to comfort, and to offer prayers.

And when the conversation is over...  The Spirit finds ways to connect the experience with our own life of faith, with our own connection to God, and with our own path in life.

What conversations have been guiding you this week?