When we practice selective listening, the Bible can provide
any type of guidance we desire. Consider the following observations from
scripture:
• How foolish to rise early (Ps 127)
• Money answers for everything (Eccl 10:19)
• There is nothing better for humans than to eat or drink
(Eccl 2:24)
The temptation to hear only what we want to hear cuts us off
from wisdom, which is what leads us to the good life. If no one rises early,
who will plow snowy streets and attend to the sick in hospitals? If money answers
for everything, how many nonmonetary gifts from God and the poor will we miss
out on? If there is nothing better for us than to eat or drink, how can we
avoid weighty health issues?
To “listen and incline the ear of your heart,” as St.
Benedict advises, entails having the patience (and inclination) to listen to the whole story. The
good life hangs in the balance.
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