The third Sunday in Easter has Luke’s passage of Jesus appearing to two travelers on their way to Emmaus. It took the two travelers a long time before recognizing the person that accompanied them was Jesus.
What a great story. How many times have I been in a conversation and really didn’t hear the message, acknowledge the individual, and got too wrapped up in my agenda. In our fast-moving society it is easy to get caught up and not see what is happening.
I had several gatherings, dinners, and events before and after the Easter weekend. There were many conversations between family and friends. I am sure that many times I was not fully aware of the conversation. However, from time to time, I did use some skills that I have used to help me. Here is a simple list:
· Be Present:
During celebrations, this can be very difficult. I lose focus and put too much attention on loading or unloading the car. I give a meaningless “How are you” instead of slowing down and seeing the other person. Doing eye contact works for me to take a bit more time with the individual.
On the road to Emmaus, were the two travelers so wrapped up in their journey they didn’t even recognize the person joining them?
· Understanding the Context of the Message:
Am I listening with an open mind? When I ask questions, am I clarifying my understanding of what the person is saying, or am I asking questions to steer or close the conversation. Do I take into consideration their passion, frustration, and look deeper into what is being said.
The two travelers to Emmaus had a lot of emotion. I can see Jesus asking lots of questions. However, there was a disconnect with the true message until Jesus gave a blessing and broke the bread.
· Letting Go of My Agenda:
Am I in such a hurry with the conversation I note: “I have heard this argument a thousand times. It is time to move on to what ‘really’ matters.” For me, I tend to cut off the person. I use that phrase: Yay, but…” way too often. Letting go is hard. It requires humility and compassion for the other person. (Even if the person is not your favorite …relative.)
How the story to Emmaus could change if all practiced:
* Greeting one another
* Listening to the conversation at hand rather than recounting past events
* Respecting the gift that both the listener and speaker give. This has the opportunity to open our hearts and lift all spirits.
Boy, when I look at these tips and “insights,” it all seems so easy. Not so with deep listening. Life is sloppy and it is easy to wander down the path, looking at the ruts below and rambling stories to a friend. I can identify with those two travelers to Emmaus and spend the day not recognizing the greater message of Jesus
Author: John Murphy – johnmurphy901@gmail.com