Listening

Shared by Jerry Tepe

It is said that Sigmund Freud coined the phrase “How long have you been hearing these voices?” I don’t know if that is true, but you often hear that phrase when, jokingly, questioning a friend’s sanity.

But can you imagine what it was like on the Day of Pentecost when each heard the voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to them in their own language; in a voice they alone could understand? You experienced a bit of what that might have been like if you attended the 10:00 AM service this past Sunday when we read the Gospel in many different languages. Amidst the cacophony of sounds, if you tried, you could pick out the different voices. Most of us listened for the English, but if you understand a different language, say French, you may have been listening for that. It is amazing what the brain is capable of discerning.

In much the same way the Holy Spirit speaks to each and every one of us in a voice we alone can understand – if we are willing to listen. Amidst the cacophony of everyday life, be alert for that voice. If you are alert, you will be able to discern the voice of the Holy Spirit calling to you. All you need to do is be willing to listen – and then to prayerfully follow.

So the next time a friend joking asks you “How long have you been hearing these voices?” you will be able to truthfully answer “As long as I have been listening.”