The opening prayer in my devotional guide has a line appropriate for where we are in the flow of time. As we begin another school year, as I begin another season of writing these offerings, this prayer encourages us as well as challenges us.
The line reads: "Give your people the joy of hearing your word in every sound."
The discipline of rising early in the morning to read my bible, reflect on sacred writings, and offer my prayers sets a tone for my day and establishes a pattern for my life. By turning to the ancient sources of inspiration, where I expect to hear God's word, I tune my ears to listen for that message of joy in all that is spoken around me. By reflecting on what God might be saying to me through those texts, I develop the habit of discernment. The rest of the day, wherever my activities might take me, has a pattern with increased awareness of God's presence.
Much of what is spoken in the classroom (all of what is spoken in the classroom) is said with an intention other than inspiring devotion to God. The calling, issued to University professors, is to expand useful knowledge. In faithfulness to that calling, they leave it to those who learn to draw the connections between the subject at hand and the One whose hand is at work. The word is there, in every sound. It is those who have been given the joy of hearing who can recognize it and give thanks for it.
Sometimes the spoken word lacks eloquence. Sometimes the speaker uses improper English (or misspells words.) The hearer also has the opportunity to look beyond the shortcomings of the speaker, discerning the joyful message contained in the humble offering.
I invite you to join me, this day and in the days to come, in listening for the word of God, spoken in every sound. I encourage you to train your ears to hear and your hearts to perceive the message of our loving and gracious God.
Pastor Chris
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