They did not listen

I love a good song... When I was growing up, I had a closely-guarded notebook of song lyrics. This was before the age of Google. If you wanted the lyrics of your favorite song, you spent hours rewinding the tape and writing down the words. Evidently, I was not a good listener! I'd hear a song on the radio years later, and realize I got the words all wrong... and in some cases, it was a good thing! However, it was the hymns and Gospel songs that stayed with you- the words of Scripture forever imprinted on your mind and heart.

Oh, the value of being a good listener! We would avoid much heartache if we truly listened and obeyed God's word. Sadly, I'm often still the defiant child wanting to do things my way. This is nothing new... God warned the prophet Jeremiah that His people would not listen-

When you speak all these words to them, they will not listen to you either; when you call to them they will not answer you. Say to them:

This is the nation that did not listen to the voice of the Lord, its God, or take correction. Faithfulness has disappeared; the word itself is banished from their speech.

(Jer 7:27-28)

We still have time this Lent to commit ourselves to listening to the voice of God; to taking correction; to placing our faith and trust in Him. Let’s turn our faces and ears to God... it’s hard to listen with our backs turned!