My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me… (John 10:27 NAS95)
John’s Gospel contains rich content that invites experience with God. Jesus speaks here of His followers hearing His voice. Often I have thought of this pointing exclusively to salvation when I come to this place in the text. Jesus however indicates hearing the voice causes His sheep to follow, to do something in the present moment. The entire passage points to a familiarity with Jesus that not only includes His voice and His presence, but security, peace, protection, and an atmosphere in which His sheep want to follow Him. His sheep hear His voice and they respond.
I stand amazed. Prayer clothed in listening — hearing. I have to ask, how familiar am I with the voice of Jesus? Do I even think of listening in prayer or as I go through my day to pay attention to the One who is with me? Jesus continues His conversation with us even today. He speaks to us. He really leads in our daily circumstances. Jesus believed God was that near and accessible, so He invites us to live in that same space with Him. This verse challenges me to live expecting God’s interaction with me. I guess I need to listen more. How about you?
For Reflection:
“Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven With the saving strength of His right hand.” (Psalms 20:6 NAS95)
- How would you describe your familiarity with God?
- What level of expectation for God's interaction with you do you carry throughout your day?
