Ordinary Time 
Pause
There are two steps in the process: first, you must listen, paying attention to what is being shared. Then, you must hear; that means you try to take in all the meaning of what you’ve been listening to, making an effort to understand.
Living in relationship with another requires that you are willing to become vulnerable to the life and experience of another, and care enough to experience it yourself—at least to some small degree.
Listen. God is speaking. Do you hear?
Listen
"Hear then the parable of the sower. When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in the heart; this is what was sown on the path."
Matthew 13:18–19
Think
Sometimes we hear words that mean nothing to us, even words that should mean something.
There are times when things going on around us are so overwhelming that we cannot hear words of care, encouragement, or love—from anyone. Like the seeds that are never able to feel the warmth of the soil, sometimes we don’t allow words of care to enter the warmth of our hearts. While it is never easy to know when we may be allowing words to be snatched from our grasp, it is important to know that this does happen. For when we are aware that we often ignore God’s words, we can take extra care to listen deeply and hold on when God is speaking into our hearts.
Bruce Reyes-Chow
Pray
God, help me to be aware of those times when I allow your word to simply pass me by. Give me the courage to take hold of your word when I am able. Amen.
Go
As you go throughout your day, will you listen? God is speaking and you will be wise to pay attention.
Hear what God is saying. Feel the power of God’s voice and go then wherever you may be directed. There is life abundant within for your journey.
