ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
July 7, 2021
Scripture: Proverbs 18:13
If one gives answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.
Thought for the Day: Catholic Priest and author, Henri Nouwen, wrote:
The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not healing, not curing… that is a friend who cares.
So often people in pain are looking, not for answers, but someone to listen. To listen is to affirm the person under the pain, while also validating the pain. No one needs someone with a quick pithy response which implies, “I have no real interest in what you are facing. I’ve got other things on my to-do list.” Listening can be one of the great gifts given.
Prayer: Let me be an expression of a compassionate patience, Lord God. To often the desire to solve the problem does not take into consideration the seriousness of the problem. Amen.
