A Lenten Reflection by Moira Sullivan, SSJ
In yesterday’s readings, the dialogue begins. Firstly, it’s between Moses and his people who are thirsting for water on their journey – and then between Moses and God who responds so generously, providing the water.
“If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.”
In John’s gospel, it’s Jesus asking the Samaritan woman for water. Back and forth the conversation flows. He said…she said… culminating with “I shall give you water welling up to eternal life.” She counters, “Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty.” And Jesus responds, “the hour is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth. God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in Spirit and truth.”
“If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.”
The gospel ends with the townspeople saying to this woman, “We no longer believe because of your word; for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the savior of the world.” They listened.
“If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.”
Jesus reveals that the thirst is much more than for water. Deep within each of us is a longing for union with Him. And until we are united with Him our thirst will continue.
Let’s not forget that dialogue involves two. What is the quality of my listening? Listening goes two ways…speaking, hearing. It can’t be either-or. When you dialogue with God today, what questions do you have? Are you able to take the time to listen to God replying? Are you willing to allow your heart to be open to his grace?
Today, when you hear God’s voice, open your ears and hearts to listen.
