Often times, when learning to speak a foreign language, let’s take Spanish as an example, one finds that they are much better at speaking Spanish than listening to someone else speak it. Speaking is easier because they know what it is they are trying to say. Listening is more difficult because they have to intentionally focus all of their attention on understanding what the teacher is saying. I find that my mind wanders more easily when I am listening to something I don’t fully understand than when I am formulating my own sentences, and so I must discipline myself to focus.

Second, when learning to speak another language, one has to practice, practice, and practice. We only become more proficient at something by practicing it, not by merely wishing to be more proficient.

The parallels here to our focus this Lent are clear. For many people, speaking seems to come more naturally than listening. Listening usually requires more intentional commitment and effort. If we want to enhance our ability to listen, we will need to practice, practice, and practice. 

Making It Personal: Do you find that, in general, listening is more difficult than speaking for you? What helps you to focus as you listen to someone else? Are you ready to make a commitment this Lent to practice listening?