The Ministry of Listening
By Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The first service that one owes to others in the fellowship consists in listening to them. Just as love to God begins with listening to his Word, so the beginning of love for the (family of God) is learning to listen to them. It is God’s love for us that he not only gives us his Word but also lends us his ear. So it is his work that we do for our brothers and sisters when we learn to listen to him.
Christians, especially ministers, so often think they must always contribute something when they are in the company of others, that this is the one service they have to render. They forget that listening can be a greater service than speaking.
The person that can no longer listen to their brother or sister will soon be no longer listening to God either; they will be doing nothing but prattle in the presence of God too. This is the beginning of the death of the spiritual life, and in the end there is nothing left but spiritual chatter and clerical condescension arrayed in pious words.
Christians have forgotten that the ministry of listening has been committed to them by him who is himself the great listener and whose work they should share.
__________
Lord, help me to listen. May I be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Announcements:
This Sunday is Potluck Lunch Sunday
Link to the CBC Calendar
I am so proud of our church and the way we came together to create a worshipful experience in so many ways during Holy Week. Thank you everyone! We are a strong and faithful church!
We will be having a night of fun for our kids on May 22 (a Friday) from 5-7. The aim is to be low-key with video games and a movie… and even some pizza for good measure.
The Christian School has emailed all pastors in the area in order to spread the word that they are looking for a preschool teacher and an administrator assistant.
The flyer below will give more information
Pastor Steven is looking for a family that is willing to host a weekly Bible Study/time of fellowship
This could be a great thing to invite the hesitant church-goers to
If you are interested in hosting this, let Pastor Steven know
Church Weekly Schedule
Sunday worship at 11am
Sunday School at 9:45am
I am teaching through the Gospel According to Matthew
Youth/Children’s Group! Daniel and Emily Mendez are heading up the Youth Group Bible Study at 9:45
Wednesday Prayer Posse 12pm
Trail Life each Sunday from 2-3pm
Pastor Steven’s Office Hours 8-4 Mon-Thursday
I have an open sign (if it is on, I am here)
If I am not in the office at these times, I am meeting with someone
Call or text me 972-921-2516
Email steven@kodiakcbc.org
