Embracing Listening Prayer

One of the most profound lessons we can learn from Jesus is the power of solitude and listening to God. We often picture Jesus as being constantly surrounded by people - healing the sick, teaching the masses, and interacting with His disciples. Yet, there were many instances where Jesus sought solitude, spending time alone, praying, and listening to His Father. The scriptures tell us that Jesus often retreated to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16). He would find a quiet spot, away from the noise and distractions of the world. One such instance was when He sat on a well, taking a moment of rest. This wasn't just about physical relaxation, but also about spiritual rejuvenation. In those moments of solitude, Jesus was watching His Father in the Spirit, learning how His Father wanted things done. Yet, solitude was not just about retreating from the world. Jesus was also known for His unique way of interacting with people. He often let others do the talking, taking the time to listen before He responded. He was known to answer questions with questions, a method that challenged people to think more deeply. In one particular instance, during the episode of the woman caught in adultery, Jesus was found drawing in the sand. I believe that this was a strategy to buy time, to listen for His Father's voice before responding. This was not an act of humility as some may construe. Instead, it was a demonstration of a new reality – one where decisions and actions were made after careful listening and seeking guidance from God. This is a powerful lesson for us all, reminding us of the importance of taking time to listen to God, and to seek His guidance before making decisions or taking action. So, how can we incorporate this into our own lives? How can we practice listening prayer? It may look different for everyone. What works for one person may not work for another. For some, it could be sitting quietly in a room, for others it may be taking a walk in nature. It could even be jotting down thoughts on a piece of paper, or recording them. The key is to find a method that helps you listen and connect with God. Helpful tips:

• Start where you are, not where you "should be." Begin with small steps: if 30 minutes a day is too much, start with 10; if daily is overwhelming, start weekly.

• Prioritize subtraction over addition. Instead of adding more, consider what you can cut from your busy life, like news, social media, or TV habits.

• Your commitment determines the impact. The more you invest, the more transformation you'll experience. Avoid shortcuts.

• Spiritual formation takes time; Enjoy the process with your Father.

Some of my favorite times with Listening Prayer are when I take one thought, I believe comes from the Spirit, or when I take a passage or verse that has been on my heart or picture or prophecy to my time and I wait quietly listening for the Lord to speak to my heart. I always have my recorder or a pad of paper to record what I believe has been spoken. I am never disappointed with the time. He is faithful to speak. Even when the times are quiet there is a peace that leads me. I love stories in the Bible that paint a wonderful picture of our participation with Our God. Stories like the man who was near the pool for 38 years, waiting for something different to happen. Jesus shows up and asks a question with an obvious answer. Jesus “Do you want to be healed?” Of course, the man wanted to be healed. What in the world was Jesus doing? Jesus was asking the man do you want to participate in a new way of life? Jesus was asking the man if he was done with 38 years of non-participation. Jesus is asking us to join Him in an intimate relationship with Him, fully engaged with Him. That is what Listening Prayer does, it creates an openness in our hearts to participate in this New Reality “Kingdom of God”. We also can take a cue from Mary, the mother of Jesus. When the angel Gabriel appeared to her with the news that she would conceive Jesus, her response was, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” Her statement is a powerful example of someone who listened to God and willingly accepted and participated in His will. It is a reminder for us to not only listen but to also accept what God has in store for us. Learning from Jesus and Mary, let's make the time to seek solitude, listen to God, and embrace His will for our lives. It may not always be easy, but it is sure to lead us on the path of truth, wisdom, and fulfillment. A changed life!!! HAVE FUN WITH YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER!!!