Meditations from Zion

Mark 8:18
Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember?

Who wants to confess that he/she can’t hear? Or worse, can’t see? And worse still, can’t remember what has gone before? Jesus asked these questions of his disciples in intimate settings where they, alone, were present. I think he was always a little surprised that they weren’t “getting it.” I assume the disciples were having trouble because Jesus was showing and teaching them things outside of the norm.

When we see or hear something outside of our experience, it takes awhile to integrate it into our mindset. In dreams, we are more capable of this integration. I think about the number of times I’ve awakened to discover the music from my alarm or a loud storm have become part of my dream (but not as an alarm or a storm, as something totally different).

In the gospels, the word “listen” appears at least 30 times. Either Jesus is exhorting the people to listen or someone else is encouraging others to listen to Jesus. To listen and integrate requires one’s full attention. While in church yesterday, I sensed God was showing me that I don’t listen enough… that I literally talk too much. I have been suffering from severe TMJ for some weeks (yesterday, it was so extreme, I couldn’t even sing without pain). I feel there is something symbolic in that… too much talking and not enough listening.

Lord, tame my tongue today and teach me to listen. Forgive my stubborn ways.