JOHN 12:47-50 “NATURAL” CONSEQUENCES

47 “As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it. 48 There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. 49 For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it. 50 I know that his command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.”

We live in a world of “natural” consequences. What we mean by the term “natural” is that certain actions will invariably lead to specific reactions because of the ordered system in which we exist. Early in life we learn not to jump off the roof, spit into the wind, put a hand in the fire or push the neighborhood bully. As we develop we become more refined through the trial-and-error school of life. One of the most important lessons we can learn when it comes to interpersonal relationships is the art of listening. How much we esteem another person is demonstrated by the time and effort we invest in listening to them. And our ability to listen also enhances our own lives. While the “natural” consequences of listening are healthy relationships, teamwork and wisdom, those of not listening are rejection, isolation and ignorance.

The intensity of the consequences of listening increase as our relationships get closer. Illustrating this negatively, not listening to someone giving you driving directions will result in your getting lost, not listening to others at a social function might get you labeled a “bore,” not listening to your boss might get you fired and chronically not listening to your spouse could end your marriage.

Since our life experience demonstrates all this to be true, why do we think it will not hold for the most important relationship of all; our relationship with God? As we read in the Letter to the Hebrews:

Heb 1:1 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe.

Heb 2:1 We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2 For if the message spoken by angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, 3 how shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him.

Give me a listening heart, Lord, so that I will take the time and make the effort to listen to your Word. You speak out of love in order that I might know your salvation, open my ears to your Truth and empower my feet for obedience. Amen.