When Listening Becomes a Ministry
Mercy, friend, come right on up them steps on this ol’ front porch and slip right on through that there ol’ kitchen door and set yourself down before the iced tea sweats clean through the coaster. There’s a real pretty red cardinal fussin’ up there in the dogwood tree like somebody done forgot to consult him about the weather, and that reminds me of somethin’. Most of us are mighty talented at makin’ noise. Listenin’ is plum another matter entirely.
We’re often just halfway through hearin’ somebody’s spoken sentence while already loadin’ our reply like an ol’ farmer loadin’ up hay bales.
But Colossians 4:6 says, “Our conversation should be full of grace.” Grace ain’t only knowin’ what to say. Sometimes grace plum also knows when to hush.
Proverbs 20:5 says, “The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.” Deep things usually don’t come rushin’ to the surface like lil’ ol’ ducks after somebody scatters corn. They’re plum drawn out patiently, one thoughtful question at a time.
That’s especially true with family. Ask the grandchild another question. Ask your spouse what’s really been weighin’ on ‘em. Sit beside the quiet person at church. Then, resist the urge to fill every silence.
Here’s another word we need these days. James 1:19 says, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak.”
Quick to listen. Slow to speak.
That there kind of order will sho’-nuff’ save us a heap of trouble.
People don’t always need advice. Sometimes they just need proof that somebody considers their story worth hearin’. Listenin’ says, “You matter enough for me to stop talking.”
Father, teach me to listen with patience and love. Slow my tongue when I’m tempted to interrupt, fix, or rush someone along. Give me genuine curiosity about the people You place before me and help my conversations reflect the grace of Jesus. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Now, gather up your things and ease on down the lane, friend, but leave your ears turned on. A lil’ ol’ rabbit won’t come out of the brush while somebody’s beatin’ a washtub with a spoon. Hearts can be much the same. Make a little quiet room for somebody today. You may discover they’ve been carryin’ a story just waitin’ for a real safe place to land.
With joy,
Gwen
