3rd Sunday, Year C – Ne 8:2-6,8-10; Ps 19; 1 Cor 12:12-14,27; Luke 1:1-4,4:14-21

“all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.” Ne 8

I often find myself listening without truly hearing, reading without grasping the meaning. My thoughts drift to recent events or the tasks awaiting me, making it difficult to focus on the words I want to absorb. If I struggle with ordinary words, what state am I in when approaching God’s Word? How can I prepare myself to truly listen and understand?

The Word demands our full attention to grasp what God is communicating to us, requiring not just internal tranquillity but also an environment free from distractions. This is particularly challenging in our fast-paced world, where I am constantly rushing and preoccupied with plans and worries about tomorrow. My mind is inundated with a flood of information and images, many of which are trivial and detract from my ability to concentrate.

Yet, even amidst this chaos, God is ever-present, patiently waiting for me to genuinely turn my ears toward Him. He longs for me to recognize His presence and to invite Him in, allowing me to delve deeper into the understanding of His Words. I must cultivate a sense of quietness and intentionality to truly engage with the Scriptures and receive their meaning in my heart.