Have you ever tried to explain something to someone, maybe give some instruction on how to do something? Have you ever seen the look in their eyes of detachment? Or have you had the experience of talking with (not to, but with) someone whose eyes are fastened on you and you can tell that they are listening to what you have to say? Isn’t that a great experience when it happens?
Jesus begins the first parable (story) reported in Mark by saying , “Listen.” He knew that many people would hear sounds and occasional words, but that they would not hear and attempt to understand the message. In fact, he quotes his Hebrew Scriptures that says that very thing.
Listening isn’t an art. It’s not necessarily a gift. It’s something we can all learn. Some are just better at it. It takes practice. The first step is to step outside of yourself–your worries, concerns, how you’ll respond to the words, what you’ll say next. Then focus attention on the other. That is the key. Attention. Life is about where you place your attention. When you are in conversation with another, or in a learning experience with another, place your attention there. Completely. Then you can absorb what they are saying. Response comes later.
Many times, I’ve left a sales call with a salesperson from my company and marveled that the salesperson didn’t hear what the customer said. He was too busy talking. Many times I’ve heard husbands talk about how they wanted to solve their wife’s problems while she was talking to them. I simply say, she didn’t want a solution. She wanted you to listen to her. Listening with your complete attention. Same with God. If you don’t place your attention on God, how will you hear and understand your call?
Listen.
Faith Venture 
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