EARS, MIND AND HEART
- Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Today’s Readings:
Jonah 1:1-2:1,11
Jonah 2:3-5,8
Luke 10:25-37
One of the great gifts you can give another person is the gift of presence. We are very aware when people are paying attention to us and when they are not. We get annoyed when we are saying something to someone and then get a response which indicates that they have not really been listening to us—either they are on their phones or distracted by something else. We, too, are sometimes guilty of not really listening well to others. But we value very much those who listen to us and give us their ear and time. Paying real attention to someone goes beyond mere listening. It involves the ears, heart and mind.
In our Gospel reading today, Martha exemplifies the ‘hospitality of activity’ and Mary the ‘hospitality of presence’. On this occasion, it was the hospitality of presence rather than of activity that Jesus was really looking for. Mary did not just listen; she paid attention involving her ears, heart and mind. Martha, on the other hand, was only half-listening, her attention pulled away by all the preparations. Her service was beautiful in its own right, but it was not what Jesus desired at that particular moment. True attentiveness is about being present. Presence is the conducive atmosphere for communion of souls. It opens us up to experience the vulnerable side of the other. And in their self-revelation, our perspectives shift, our understanding broadens, and conversion begins. The Ninevites were converted because they were attentive to God speaking through Jonah. And they were spared from destruction because of this. Can we listen more to God today?
Here are a few ways we can be more present and attentive today:
Be present to God whenever you are at Mass or fellowship, paying full attention.
When you pray, do not be discouraged when your mind wanders and distractions creep in.
Concentrate on who is in front of you, pay attention to what they are saying—it is a sign of respect.
Say an occasional hello to your friends and acquaintances. This way, they know you value them far beyond what they can offer you.
Read a passage of scripture today and note what it says about what you are currently passing through.
Thank your spouse, friend or colleague for something good they did for you recently or something they do well (if you do not say it, they may never know).
Go to confession or counselling regularly and pour out your heart to God.
Pray for forgiveness of your sins today and always, and express sorrow for your sins of indifference to Christ’s suffering for you.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! You are welcome to the body of Christ. Prayerfully seek out a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor, or priest.
Prayer:
Eternal Father, thank you for your loving care, your desire to pardon my sins and restore me.
In Your grace, free me from the encumbrance of distractions and give me deep respect for the time and presence of others. Amen.
Comments