Welcome to Wondering Wednesday. You are encouraged to use this as personal devotion and reflection. After that, you are welcome to hop on the church Facebook page or Instagram page and wonder with others.
This story recounts the death of Christianity’s first martyr, Stephen, killed after offering a great witness to the love of God. Stephen had courage – courage that led him to share his controversial message. The crowd covered their ears.
While we aren’t all called to be martyrs, we can all be emboldened to share the message that God loves all. As you go through your week, pay extra attention to what sounds fill your ears. Notice the quality of sound and where it echoes in your body. Notice when you choose to listen and when you choose to block out all noise. Use these questions to support your growing awareness.
– What is the volume of sound that surrounds you daily: loud, gentle, calm? – To whom do you choose to listen? Who is dismissed? – What noises disturb your peace? – What sounds bring you comfort?
Pray…Open us, loving God. When we want to close our hearts, minds, and even our ears from the cries of others, from pleas for help and proclamations of justice, open us. Remove every stumbling block, and enliven us with your spirit. Open us, we pray. Amen.
