Dear Friends,

New Year's Resolutions are mentioned everywhere this time of year. Many times the same is said year after year: lose weight, exercise, spend more time with family, etc. etc ...
 
This year my resolution is one word: LISTEN. A single word, which encompasses my life with my God, my Savior, and my family and friends.

I will listen to the Word of God.

As Moses spoke his final words to the Israelites he said: "Listen to (God's) voice, and hold fast to Him. For the Lord is your life ... "

And the young boy, Samuel responded to Gods' voice saying: "Speak, for your servant is listening ... "

I will listen to my Savior.

Jesus, our Good Shepherd says: "My sheep listen to my voice ... " (John 10:27)
 
And the amazing way that Mary has taught me to listen: "(Martha) had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "You are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her."

I will listen to others.

How many times do I need to follow James direction and take note: "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." (James 1: 19)
 
And heed the warning in Proverbs: "He who answers before listening - that is his folly and his shame." (Proverbs 18: 13)
 
So my prayer is that the Lord closes my mouth, opens my ears to listen to His truth and to those around me. And then open my eyes, hands and heart to show His grace, love and presence.

Listening in 2012,
 

Cindy