Hearing God's Plan

Church of the Visitation, Ein Karem, Jerusalem

Perhaps none of us will be blessed to hear directly from angels about God's plan for our life like Mary and Elizabeth experienced. Almost certainly, some of us will live most of our lives thinking, "I know God has a plan for my life but he hasn't told me what it is." I believe the middle way is learning to listen with the tools we've been given--but have, perhaps, ignored.

Roy Cavellini talks about how he used to run 5Ks, 10Ks, and half-marathons. He also jokes about when he used to golf. By practicing his running he improved. By ignoring the practice range, he never improved his golf game. God has given us several ways to hear his voice. I firmly believe that practicing makes the difference in our ability to hear him.

Psalm 46:10 urges us to contemplative prayer. Matthew 5:3-12 teaches us almost everything a Christian needs to know and do. John 13:34 teaches us how to love. All of these, and many more, are our resources. If we follow their precepts we can expect to develop our God-listening skills. So, the next time you find yourself wondering to yourself, "Why doesn't God just tell me what I should do?" consider the possibility that he already has. Maybe you and I aren't listening.