Opening Our Ears to Hear His Word ~ by Barbara Williford

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time


In today's Gospel, we heard about Jesus curing a deaf mute man. After his encounter with Christ, the man could hear and speak. What does this episode tell us about the message of Christ?

God speaks to us daily. He is always loving and caring for us. Many people do not want to hear His message and refuse to follow His commands. What we want for ourselves may not be in line with what God wants for us. So we choose not to hear; we choose to turn a deaf ear to whatever is going on around us. It is our ego and pride that shut out the messages from God.

Many of us are trying to handle the complex issues of our daily lives. We need to put these problems in God's hands. We need to pray and trust that God's words will always guide us. The Lord is opening our ears to hear His word - LISTEN!

We also need to speak God's words. In all aspects of our lives when we encounter negativity, we must remind ourselves to be optimistic and positive about the power of God. Speaking out and telling others about the good things God is doing in our lives may bring others to Him. We have all received so many wonderful blessings from God. Let's share them and SPEAK about our loving God.


Graphic from The Doctrine of Christ