It’s as we listen to God, that we find ourselves with the margin and capacity to extend that same grace to others. When we listen to our extended spiritual family and neighbors, we learn their joys, their struggles, and their dreams. We hear what is making them sad, frustrated, and hopeful. We start to understand where God might already be at work in their lives. And we can affirm that alongside them. If we slow down, share space, and pay attention, we will continue to grow together as a network of disciples.
Remember: Listening isn’t just about waiting for a chance to share the gospel—it’s about seeing people the way Jesus sees them and giving them space to be seen and heard- a space to be human.
I’m going to encourage us to listen with two things- neither of which is the obvious- your ears.
1) Listen with Curiosity. If you don’t care about the answer, don’t ask the question.
2) Listen with Empathy. The cynicism and critique of our culture has seeped not only into our hearts, but our ears. Highly recommend you connect with Brittany Johnson for some best practices to actively listen with empathy!
I can’t encourage you enough, to be curious, empathetic, and genuine. In listening to others you are not a grand inquisitor or interrogator. You are a friend. A fellow pilgrim and listening to others on the is an incredible way to show love to others on the path.
When we started Missio in Mesa we started with Listening.
We learned the first posture of the church is prayer and prayer necessarily involves listening to God which led us to want to be more mindful of how we listened to our neighbors.
Some friends started listening in downtown Mesa.
Some of us started listening to marginalized neighbors at paz.
Others listened to the voices of homeless friends.
Some listened to elected officials
Some listened to small business owners.
Others listened to voices in their neighborhoods.
Others listened to the voices of those in downtown Mesa.
What we get to experience today as a church is partly the result of people doing really good listening. What we will experience over the next 10 years will be a result of us doing the same today!
THIS WEEK
what are some ways we can intentionally listen to our neighbors or coworkers this week?
How can we practice listening as an act of love?"
As you sit with someone in your MC, your spouse, your bf/gf, or even a neighbor this week try this, just ask them how you are as a listener. It’s a trusted relationship and your curiosity will open a door to help you grow.
Practitioner Tip: Jesus was a master listener, but also asked good questions. So as you ask good questions in conversations, you got to listen not just think about your next question.
Anoother great recommendation is to not ask questions that you wouldn’t answer. Meaning, if they say “how about you” and you’d shut down, don’t ask them that question.