Editorial: A reminder to ‘weep with those who weep’
For months now, our hearts have felt troubled. We’ve watched…
Learning to listen — really listen — is key
It can be hard to listen. Trust me, as someone who grew up interrupting others, learning to listen is challenging.
For the past few years, I’ve worked with a recovery ministry at my home congregation.
I’ve learned how to sit with a hurting person as they pour out their heart, process their pain and explore the choices and experiences that brought them to where they are.
It’s hard and uncomfortable to watch someone weep. Often, I fight off the urge to want to fix their struggle with my words.
I pray I won’t be like the friends Job had. I try hard to hold my tongue. I ask God for the strength and wisdom to know what to say and when to say it.
Related: Editorial: A reminder to ‘weep with those who weep’
These experiences have changed me and how I see the world. I’ve gained empathy and understanding. God has used each person I’ve met to grow my heart. While my own story may not reflect theirs, I still can listen intently to their words and go forward loving more wholly.
I hope and pray more of us can learn to listen to those who weep, because in doing so I believe God grows our heart to love more deeply and sincerely.
View Comments
