Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; then from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” (Gospel for Feb. 25, Mk 9:7)
In last month’s challenge, we talked about recognizing Jesus’ presence and power in our lives. Here, at his baptism, we hear the voice of God instructing us very simply: “Listen to him.” It is not enough to acknowledge Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. We must also be attentive to his teachings — communicated through sacred Scripture and sacred tradition — and respond by following him faithfully. This is the path of the true disciple who understands his own baptismal mission. May we follow this path faithfully throughout our lives.
This month, I challenge you to spend at least 10 minutes each day in prayerful silence, contemplating the presence of Jesus and listening for his voice.
How do you listen for the voice of Jesus? What steps can you take in your prayer life, your spiritual reading, your pious practices and your religious study to hear his voice more clearly? What dispositions and virtues should you foster within yourself in order to become more open and responsive to what Christ is telling you?