As I watch the expressions of protest across the globe, it seems that they are driven not only by a sense of injustice and inequality, but also a sense of not being listened to.
None of us like to be ignored or dismissed, and when that is paired with a sense of wrongdoing and even brutality, it is a recipe for upheaval and rebellion.
I have observed in marriages and in families, the consequences of a member being ignored or dismissed. I have seen it in communities including in churches.
We note that Timothy was warned that some may treat him dismissively because he was young (1 Tim. 4:12), and rather than throw in the towel he should let his actions speak even when his words were being ignored.
More than once in Scripture, the plea is that God would hear, that the praying soul would not be ignored or dismissed, and when it is affirmed that God has heard, there is a release of praise and gratitude:
The Lord has heard my cry for mercy;
the Lord accepts my prayer. Ps 6:9
Praise be to the Lord,
for he has heard my cry for mercy.
The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
and with my song I praise him. Ps. 28:6-7
Look around – perhaps there is someone to whom you can give the gift of listening with compassion, and without judgment. The world needs such people.
Pastor Peter