by Jeannie Ward, West District Lay Leader
Are we really appreciative of the beautiful works of tapestries and rugs we see displayed in museums? Some were originally displayed on the floors of palaces…and, of course, now can be seen on the Antiques Roadshow! They were crafted centuries ago…but, beware, some were copied and created recently then promoted as original works.
In our lives we will encounter real, valid works of art AND works of heart! But we also encounter works which are not true or valid. Our job is to discern the difference…and how do we do that?
Prayer and listening. Of course, that is the way to all truths. God is listening even if we do not hear our much awaited reply quickly enough.
“… that God is talking to you every minute of
every hour of every day.
You are never alone, or without help or guidance,
counsel or advice.
The answer may come in an unexpected form, but it
will come. Your only job then will be to not ignore it;
to see it for what it is. For all you know these very words
may be an answer to your question about whether God
is even listening to you or offering you guidance.”
Neale Donald Walsch (Daily thought – 9/9/2021)
Recently, it was my blessing to facilitate the Basic Course – Introduction to Lay Servant Ministry. One of the questions in the text was: Have you heard God’s call?
Calling you into further ministry or service? What did you hear?
Of course, you only ‘hear’ if you are listening. That word listening, we could even call it a directive, was prominent within four of the five sessions in the Lay Servant curriculum.
If listening was mentioned that often, then it must be considered as an important, constant reminder – that we should never give up listening for God’s voice, words, or messages that can come in many ways and in a myriad of formats.
What do you think of when you see the threads of varied colors … red, blue, black, green, white, or gold ? So often, these are the colors found in those beautiful tapestries and carpets. They were painstakingly woven with love and care over many, many hours of work … perhaps those weavers were listening for directions to create the intricate patterns. The threads were delicate – but, were woven with strong knots – so, they would last for centuries.
As it is with God’s Words….delicately woven into the scriptures – but, as we read and live them – we are strongly tied to them.
Proverbs 1:5 – “let the wise listen and add to their learning, and, let the discerning get guidance…”
Praise be to God!
