We’ve heard this before in Matthew 3:17, “And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’” God, at Jesus’ baptism, confirms who Jesus is at the beginning of his public ministry. Once again, at the Transfiguration, Jesus’ divinity and close relationship with God are reaffirmed.
We know we are
also children of God. "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" (1 John 3:1). So when I hear these words from God, I am reminded of my own place in God’s heart. I, too, am a child of God, loved by God, and God is pleased with me.
As human beings, we don’t feel worthy of God’s love, but it is always present, always there, inviting us back.
There is an addition to this proclamation by God, “Listen to Him!” We know that God speaks to us through Scripture, one another, our longings and desires, through nature, experience, and so much more. However, we seem to find it very difficult to listen to God and Jesus. Our call to be Christ-followers can only really be discerned if we are attentive to the ‘voice’ of God, in prayer, and in service to others.
We find it even more difficult to listen to one another than we do to listen to God. Our world is so full of noise that we no longer pay attention when people speak to us. By actively listening to what others are saying as they relate experiences, share feelings or toss out ideas, we offer them the greatest gifts we can—respect, dignity and love.
What is even more amazing is that we are also listening to God
speaking through them. .
How do you feel about the statement, “I, too, am a child of God, loved by God, and God is pleased with me”?
Can you spend some time on the mountain hearing God say this to Jesus and to you?
Is there someone in your life you need to gift with attentive listening today?
