Our modern world is filled with noise. Everyone seems to have an opinion and demands to be heard through talk radio, online comments, constant chatter on TV, chat rooms, conversations, etc. Anyone who has sat in a hospital waiting room listening to the non-stop droning of the TV understands the incessant noise of the modern world. The young Samuel learned to listen for the voice of the Lord. He "stilled and quieted [his] soul" (Ps 131:2) and listened only for God. Samuel heard God speak and became so effective in speaking God's Word that the entire nation of Israel came to the Lord within twenty years (1 Sm 3:20). How can we hear the voice of God? Listening prayer is important. We must set a daily time for listening prayer during which we still and quiet our soul, turn off all worldly noise, go into a quiet space, and say "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." It is equally important is to hear what God has already revealed through the centuries. This involves reading the Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. God has been speaking constantly, and we are blessed to have much of it written down. "Anyone committed to the truth hears God's voice" (Jn 18:37). Jesus is the Truth (Jn 14:6). The Spirit is the Truth (Jn 16:13). Seek what God has revealed and hear His voice. "Whoever is of God hears every word God speaks" (Jn 8:47). |