Listen to my voice

The Lord reveals in today’s first reading the sorrow that comes when we close our hearts to his voice. As I ponder this passage, I am struck by God’s clear, loving call to obedience—a call that reminds us of the importance of cultivating a heart that listens. Far too often we overlook our own ability to draw near to God; to work toward a deeper relationship by listening with an open and willing spirit. 

A favourite saint of mine, St John Paul II, speaks to this call to listen and trust, especially in this season of Lent. He reminds us: “Listen to his voice. Do not be afraid. Open up your hearts to Christ. The deepest joy there is in life is the joy that comes from God and is found in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Jesus Christ is the hope of yours. He is my hope. He is the hope of the world” (Universal Amphitheatre, Los Angeles, 15 September 1987). 

If we truly wish to live in the fullness of life, here is a golden nugget for us to treasure today! We do not have to carry the weight of sorrow alone. As our dear Lord says, “My yoke is easy and my burden light” (Mt 11:30). And so, in this sacred season, may we invite God to move within us, allowing a river of his mercy to flow into the depths of our hearts. 

Now my dear friend, as we continue this journey together, do not be afraid to draw closer to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus! The Lord wholeheartedly desires you and wants you to begin anew. So, whether it’s your first or 500th time, don’t just go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, but run! Seek his graces, seek his mercy. Encounter him at Mass, especially in the Eucharist, and seek those quiet, intimate moments where we can rest our head on Jesus’ Heart and hear his loving voice in eucharistic Adoration. 

As St John Paul II says, “Be not afraid!” 

May we place all our trust in Our Lord’s Most Sacred Heart as we say: O most sweet Jesus, do not be my judge, but be my Saviour. Amen. 

AMATA