Like many older people, I am aware that I don't hear as well as I used to, especially at higher frequencies.
But yesterday, while on my bike along one of Goldsworth Park's many foot and cycle paths, I was approaching a pedestrian from behind. So I repeatedly rang my bell, to give good warning. However, the young lady (!!) didn't show any signs of having heard me, so I slowed and gave her a wide berth. On looking round, I realised why she had not responded - she was listening to music through her earphones, so was deaf to all that was happening.
This is an increasing feature of modern life. What people choose to hear affects how they connect to the world around. The personal and private world of the iphone's music effectively separates people from the wider world of their immediate location. Does this matter? That will depend on your point of view.
Jesus spent much of his time challenging people to think about their listening. 'Then he added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given—and you will receive even more. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.” (Mark 4.24-25)
Pay close attention to what you hear suggests we need to concentrate, and resist the many distractions in the confusing world all around us. The rewards from this close attention are great, as we get to know Jesus and his will and way for us and our particular lives.
I am challenged to review my lifestyle choices. Do I listen to too much background music when I need to be fully aware of something very different? How should I modify my working habits, so that I am fully engaged with the task in hand?
What might you change in your lifestyle, so that you are better at listening to Jesus?
Best wishes,
Richard
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