The eyes of a newborn baby will instinctively follow the sound of the people she knows. While in the safety of the womb, she grew to hear and recognize her mother’s and possibly her father’s voice. Similarly for us, we are invited to listen and remember the sound of the Voice who lovingly formed us. Jesus reminds us to return to that womb-like place of the Father’s compassion – where we are fully known and loved – and literally hear God’s heart as we listen to the words.
John 10:22-30 (NLT)
It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade. The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”
Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name. But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.”
For Reflection and Prayer:
What did you hear as you listened to the text? Did a word or phrase stand out in particular?
Meditate on this word, phrase or picture. Is there more God wants to say to you?
Place yourself in this conversation. Who are you? What are you thinking? What are you feeling? What do you want to say to Jesus? What does he in turn say to you?
Savor any consoling words or pictures God gives you. Simply rest in God’s presence.