The words of the wise:
Incline your ear and hear my words,
and apply your mind to my teaching.

~ Proverbs 22:17

Sacred Listening

Listening is one of the most important spiritual practices we can teach our children, and ourselves. It’s also one of the hardest. True listening asks us to slow down, be present, and make space for what we might not expect. It’s no surprise that throughout Scripture, God doesn’t just speak, God calls people to listen. “Incline your ear,” Isaiah writes. “Let anyone with ears listen,” Jesus says again and again.

This Sunday, we mark an important moment in the lives of our 4th graders: they will each receive their very own Bible. More than just a gift, this is an invitation to begin listening to the story of God in a new way. As they grow in faith, these young people are invited to listen for wisdom, for wonder, and for the voice of love that runs through every page. Our hope is that they will not just read Scripture, but hear it, with open hearts, curious minds, and the deep knowing that they belong in this story, too. But this season isn’t only about the children listening. It’s also about how we, as a church, are listening in return.

Since arriving at Saint John’s, I’ve been listening closely to what families are saying. I’ve heard your hopes for a middle hour that nurtures your children’s faith, engages them meaningfully, and supports the rhythm of your Sunday mornings. As I look ahead, please know that I am listening, not only to your feedback, but to the Spirit and to the stirrings that suggest something new is possible when we make space for connection, creativity, and care.

So let’s keep listening. Let's listen to the questions children ask, to the wisdom of parents and volunteers, to the silences between the words, and to the story God is still telling in our midst. I invite you to come celebrate with us this Sunday as we present Bibles to our 4th graders and bless them on their journey of faith. Thank you for being a church that listens: with love, with intention, and with ears wide open.