Wednesday, December 6, 2023
- Reflection by Mike Johnson
“Listen” is a simple word with profound implications. It is a word that embodies the act of paying attention, of being receptive to the world around us.
Recently, I had the chance to rewatch a movie that I haven’t viewed in decades that hit me as a perfect example of listening.
In the 1989 film, “Field of Dreams,” fictionally based in the Dubuque County town of Dyersville, the character Ray Kinsella, portrayed by Kevin Costner, embarks on a journey driven by his ability to listen. When he hears a mysterious voice whispering, “if you build it, he will come,” Ray listens, despite the incredulity of those around him. His willingness to heed this enigmatic call leads him to plow his cornfield and build a baseball diamond, setting off a chain of events that ultimately reconcile him with his deceased father and bring closure to unresolved familial conflicts.
Ray Kinsella’s story exemplifies the transformative power of listening. By being attuned to the voice and following its guidance, he not only alters the course of his own life but also impacts the lives of others. This illustrates the importance of active listening, of being open to messages that may not always be immediately clear or rational. In a broader sense, “Field of Dreams” teaches us that listening can lead to unexpected discoveries, connections, and personal growth.
In essence, the word “listen” serves as a reminder of the significance of being receptive and understanding, and the impact it can have on our lives and the lives of those around us.
In this season of Advent, I hope that we can listen to the transformative voice of the holy spirit calling us into unexpected discoveries, connections, and personal growth.