Reflect today on your willingness to listen

Jesus said to the crowds: “To what will I compare the people of this generation? How am I? They are like children who sit in the market and shout at each other: 'We played your flute, but you didn't dance. We sang a lament, but you didn't cry '”. Luke 7: 31-32

So what does this story tell us? First of all, the story means that children ignore each other's "songs". Some children sing a song of pain and that song is rejected by others. Some sang joyful songs to dance, and others didn't get into dance. In other words, the proper response was not given to the offer of their music.

This is a clear reference to the fact that so many of the prophets who came before Jesus "sang hymns" (ie preached) inviting people to have sorrow for sin as well as to rejoice in the truth. But despite the fact that the prophets opened their hearts, so many people ignored them.

Jesus strongly condemns the people of that time for their refusal to listen to the words of the prophets. He goes on to point out that many called John the Baptist one who was "possessed" and called Jesus a "glutton and drunkard". Jesus' condemnation of the people focuses in particular on one particular sin: obstinacy. This stubborn refusal to listen to God's voice and change is a grave sin. In fact, it is traditionally referred to as one of the sins against the Holy Spirit. Do not leave yourself guilty of this sin. Don't be stubborn and refuse to listen to God's voice.

The positive message of this gospel is that when God speaks to us we must listen! Do? Do you listen carefully and respond with all your heart? You should read it as an invitation to turn your full attention to God and to listen to the beautiful "music" that He sends.

Reflect today on your willingness to listen. Jesus strongly condemned those who did not listen and refused to listen to him. Don't be counted in their number.

Lord, may I hear, hear, understand and respond to Your sacred voice. May it be the refreshment and nourishment of my soul. Jesus I believe in you.