A Listening Heart
We thought it was a good idea at the time, to bring goats to church. Liven up the idea of the good shepherd, with a story or two about what shepherding is really like, with a tangible image for people to embrace, touch, see and pique their interest. The kids were so good, patiently waiting in the bin, even sleeping, until show time. I confess, it was a bit of a show. All was well, until it was time to go back to the barn. Right on cue, as we gently placed the bin on the ground to open the tailgate of the SUV, the kids jumped out. What a spectacle the game of “catch me if you can” on Temperance St. created! Shepherding rose to a whole new level. In order to complete a successful recovery, we had to think like goats. Listening to the one who was safely retrieved, as she called for her sister, seems obvious in hindsight. How often do we do that; take the time to slow down and listen? We listen long enough to be able to insert our own opinion or give advice. The lost art of listening; now that is a theological problem.
Life too, is unpredictable and often scary. The unforeseen causes us to reframe how we think. What we thought we believed can be thrown into a mix of questioning and chaos and disbelief, even. Suddenly, we find ourselves in the midst of some change and we are forced to cope. The first post Easter people, live into a new reality, which carries a different set of responsibilities. Yet those first disciples feel supported. Connected to each other through the experience of the risen Christ, so that even in danger and uncertainty they expand their mission. And the good news of new life through Christ begins to spread.
We read the gospel accounts of post Easter moments as history recorded, but it is so much more. These stories witness to the movement of people as they come to understand the story of Jesus in a whole new way. Upon reflection, they see new possibilities. Love, inclusion and radical welcome transform their understanding of discipleship. Their actions do matter and a small group of committed people, who risk and follow the way of Jesus leave an undeniable impact of the world. Some of that makes the world a better place.
It begins with the heart that listens for the feeling beyond the words, responding in ways that demonstrate love and care. As we live through a time of great technological distraction, listening hearts may be our greatest gift. Listening, convinced that in the exchange of stories that matter, new life is possible. There’s a faith for today!
Rev. Donna Tourneur ministers among the people of Trinity United Church, New Glasgow.