Scripture: Mark 2:1-2
After a few days, Jesus went back to Capernaum, and people heard that he was at home. So many gathered that there was no longer space, not even near the door. Jesus was speaking the word to them.
Thought for the Day: There is power in speaking the word. Whether the people were there to hear Jesus or hoping to receive something more tangible from him (bread, healing, etc.), his speaking took center stage. In recent months, I have tried (not always successfully) to listen to people a bit more closely as they speak. And in those moments when I felt as I had disengaged my own mouth and engaged my better listening skills, a door of appreciation was opened before me. In those moment, the person’s true humanity was seen and acknowledged. There was usually a story being told that gave history and depth to the person, and suddenly what might have been nothing but a brief and empty encounter, was this holy moment that was splendid and full of life. I am thankful for those moments when I close my mouth long enough to appreciate the humanity of another. I am thankful for those moments when the word of God appears in the voice of another.
Prayer: I desire to have the heart of Jesus, O Lord, for he knew when to speak a good word and when to listen. Make my spirit attentive to the words of life spoken through the lives of the multitude of people I meet along this journey. Amen.
