The gospel reading this week is a well known story. To help you hear it freshly, I’ve recorded the message version here, but you can find all the lectionary readings (NRSV translation) here.
As usual, listen to this text the first time with an ear open for the word or phrase that catches your attention, that stands out in some way. Pause for a minute after listening to let that word or phrase arise from the text and settle into your being – you might find breathing the word a helpful way to do this, inhaling slowly and deeply as you silently say the word or phrase and repeating this on the exhale (equally slowly releasing the breath).
Listen again, and then pause to consider: How is the word or phrase connecting into your life now? Keep your focus on the present. What, now, is the word saying to your life?
Listen a third time, and as you pause in prayer ask God: What now? What is the invitation or the change I am being offered or asked to make? What action will flow from this encounter with Christ in the Word?
