When it’s “bottom line” time, I need to listen.
Only then will I know when to keep my mouth shut or when to speak up. When to speak Truth or pray for wisdom. When to love quietly or with a voice that condemns.
Only after I listen to the voice of the One who sees the big picture, knows a situation’s every detail, loves without prejudice.
Only after I listen . . . will I understand perfect love.
Only after I listen . . . can I be used to love others as He loves me.
Those words were ones I wrote recently in this post. They ring true especially now as I reflect on today’s word-prompt.
START
Tonight is Church Street Cafe. Men and women, boys and girls. All ages and economic realities.
They will gather for a meal as they’ve done twice every month for the past 2 1/2 years.
It’s a beautiful site.
Around the tables, families and friends gather. Members of my church take their orders and serve them.
This is no soup kitchen.
This is an intentional time of loving every person who comes, sitting with them at the table and interacting with them.
How was school today, Jayden?
Darlene, how’s that new grandbaby?
Rick, it’s good to see you! We missed you last time.
This is a time we listen to their stories: their antics, heartbreaks, ailments, prayer requests.
This is when we are community — loving each other through the daily.
Listening.
Heart healing often comes when someone cares; when someone listens.
STOP
Church Street Cafe sounds like such a wonderful time! Love this: “This is an intentional time of loving every person who comes, sitting with them at the table and interacting with them.” It’s what we all need. Beautiful, Susan.
Lisa, I wish you lived closer so you could go with me! I know I could learn so much from watching you interact with our guests.