When I was in seminary Rev. McAlister, one of the pastors at my home church, shared this counsel: “Always remember, Cathy, God gave us two ears and one mouth. Preachers sometimes forget that we need to listen twice as much as we speak.”

Experts say that 45 percent of our day is spent listening. Hearing and listening is not the same activity. When we listen fully, we meet and accept someone wherever they are in the moment; it is a gift of radical hospitality. 

Dr. Emma Justes writes: “The greatest gift we bring to the listening process is ourselves. And the most important thing to do in order to listen well is to keep ourselves out of the way.”

This Sunday we will explore a powerful conversation from John’s gospel. Jesus listens intently to another person, got out of the way, and extended radical hospitality by listening with his heart. Read the fourth chapter of John this week to prepare your heart for worship. 

I look forward to seeing you in church; invite a friend. All are welcome!

Peace,

Pastor Cathy Johns