Exodus 3:1-4
God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” —Exodus 3:4 (NIV)
The walls of our old house are thin. I often hear the sounds of the city outside and of people passing by—a child crying, a couple with slightly raised voices, a group of giggling school children. These background noises have become a part of my everyday life, and I hardly acknowledge them. But every once in a while, something comes through clearly.
Throughout our lives, almost in the background, God speaks to us—in the wise words of others, in scripture, in our circumstances and surroundings. It is rare that we hear the voice of God clearly like Moses did. Moses was going about his daily work of shepherding when he noticed an unusual sight—a burning bush—and then heard God’s call. It was impossible to ignore.
God speaks to us too. God never ceases speaking, and taking time to stop, pray, and listen to God is an essential discipline in our Christian life. Often it is easy to neglect wise advice, to let our eyes pass over our daily scripture reading without really paying attention, to fail to notice those in need around us or God’s blessings surrounding us. Let us remember to pause and notice what God is saying to us.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to notice when you are speaking to us today. Thank you for surrounding us with your presence. Amen.
Thought for the day: Today I will pause and listen for God’s voice.
Sarah Kelleth (Tokyo, Japan)
