May 16, Seventh Sunday of Easter

The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth. — Psalm 97:1 and 9

Mass Readings: Acts 7:55-60 /Revelation 22:12-14,16-17,20 / John 17:20-26

What Was That?

When I was a child and someone started telling me something I didn’t want to hear — such as the ending of a book — I’d cover my ears and say “I can’t hear you.” While it was a fairly effective way of blocking out what they were saying, it didn’t alter the fact that they had said something.

My actions mirrored those of the people who stoned St. Stephen: “They cried out in a loud voice, covered their ears, and rushed upon him together” (Acts 7:57). While I seldom literally cover my ears anymore, I still block them figuratively when I refuse to listen to someone who disagrees with me. When I do that, how often am I denying myself the opportunity to hear an important message God might want me to hear?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, open my ears and my mind to the truth that You inspire.