Voices that Matter

In a world that is often loud and chaotic, it can be difficult to hear God’s voice. But the truth is, when the world is loud, God is still speaking. Our lives are constantly filled with noise and distractions, from the ringing of our phones and the sound of technology to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Amidst this noise, God can be found whispering to us.

God whispers through the beauty of nature to the gentle words of encouragement from a friend. He speaks to us through the Bible and through prayer, reminding us of His love and His plans for us. He also speaks to us through our own hearts and if we take the time to listen, it can be the sweetest message we’ve ever heard.

God's whispers are quiet but life-giving. Sunday’s gospel reading was one of my favorites and this year, God took me in a whole new direction. John 4:5-42 is about a woman of Samaria who was at the well searching for water. The most underlying theme is choosing the right water. We must choose the living water as it will last forever. Jesus is the one who gives us hope and fills us with joy. He wants us to know He loves us, to trust in His word and share it with others. It is a powerful message.

What struck me though is the love that Jesus had for the woman who felt she was so different. I am grateful for the patience and understanding Jesus spoke with her even though she had many questions and disbelief. He met her where she was, He loved her as she was, talked with her, invested time with her and when she resonated with the worldly decisions she had made, He leaned into her heart and kept His voice calm and comforting, almost whispering words of affirmation to give herself permission to drink of His water alone, the living waters, the one that will sustain her for life. It was the whispers in the world’s chaos that struck me the most. When we take the time to listen for them, we find peace and joy.

It can be hard to hear God's gentle whispers. But the woman of Samaria heard Him, leaned into Him, and was transformed. How can I be more like that? She knew how to quiet her mind, find Him amid the chaos. She recognized His voice. His voice was and is always there, and He wants to be heard. He reminds us that He is with us, no matter how dark and loud the world is around us, He never leaves our side.

My prayer for you today is that you are guided by His love to be patient and understanding with those who do not believe in you and to be a source of love and hope to those around you. May you be open to the Holy Spirit and to the transformation He brings. May others meet you at your well and love you with that same patience and when the world is filled with chaos, may you hear the only whisper that really matters.

Together in prayer. Hand in hand.