Stuck on the sofa over the past week with a horrible bug, I've been able to indulge in a few TV favourites. One blast from the past that never fails to please is an episode or two of Frasier: a sitcom about about radio psychiatrist whose life is gloriously ridiculous. His catchphrase is well-known to fans across the globe: "I'm listening" starts every one of his radio shows, uttered in the silky smooth tones that only talented actors can muster. It's a phrase that is, at times, spoken insincerely but he tries... when on air, he wants to be there for his listeners.
The way we listen to someone shows a lot about our relationship with them:
You can always spot a young couple in the first flush of love. They hang on each other's words with eyes wide open. Even the most mundane of communications is met with delight because the mere sound of the other person's voice brings warmth to the heart.
It's not so different between good friends or loving siblings. There's an attentiveness there - a desire to get to know someone better, a longing to understand and help - a genuine interest in what the other is trying to impart.
You can always spot someone who is respected for their sound authority. They may not warm hearts quite as roundly as a lover or a friend but people pay attention. People are keen to obey, impress, please and as such are focused on the instructions given.
You can usually spot someone who is disliked or marginalised. When they speak, no-one cares. Eyes are rolled, body language changes, subjects changed or platitudes offered. Their words make little impact on the world around them.
So, it's worth asking the question, what does the way we listen to God say about our relationship with him?
Are we in love with him, rejoicing in his every word?
Are we genuinely interested in his will, keen to get to know him more?
Are we mindful of his kingship, eager to obey his commands correctly?
Or do we harden our hearts? Hear his words but don't let them impact what we think, say or do...
Any of the first three responses have their place in our relationship with the Lord. Some days we may be more conscious of one of those responses over and above the others. But if we see the latter in our hearts, alarm bells should be ringing loud. Time to stop. Time to look into our hearts and ask God to help us echo the sentiment of the Psalmist:
I will listen to what God the Lord says;
he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants –
but let them not turn to folly. (Psalm 85:8)
