The Master’s voice

His Master’s Voice is a century-old famous recording industry trademark, depicting a dog listening intently to an antique phonograph. In more modern times, I was in a hotel lobby overseas, and I overheard a Dutch family talking animatedly by Skype with their dog back home, to delighted barks. Dogs do recognize and respond to a familiar voice.

So it is with followers of Jesus. Jesus says that they hear his voice. They know him, and he knows them. They follow him.

Have you ever heard Jesus’ voice? How and where did it happen? How did you recognize it as the voice of Jesus? Did Jesus say something special to you?

Let’s think about times and places where you might indeed hear Jesus. Jesus might speak to you in a worship service, in a Bible reading or sermon, while singing a hymn, or as you receive Holy Communion. Perhaps you might hear Jesus during a walk in the woods or along a beach.

Let’s not forget Jesus’ promise in Matthew 25 that we would meet him in those who live on the margins of society, the sick and lonely, the hungry and thirsty, the imprisoned and outcast. Jesus is speaking if we but listen.

Speak, Lord. Your servant is listening. Amen. — JRG