For many years, I traveled constantly. I was always flying off to a campaign in this country or that one. I would arrive home, and my wife would ask, “So, when’s the next trip?” I was always on to the next thing, and I loved traveling the world for Christ. But for the last six months, as I have dealt with health issues, I haven’t gone anywhere. I’ve stayed in my home and neighborhood, adjusting to a new pace of life. In this season of life, I have had a chance to listen to what people say. I’ve been able to sit with people and with books, and think about what they have to tell me. It’s been so valuable to have the time to really listen.

All Christians are called to be witnesses for Christ, but few actually live out that calling. We’re not all called to be vocational evangelists, jetting around all over the world to share the gospel in packed venues. But we are called to share the good news with those around us, wherever we are. And all Christians – evangelists included – could do a little more listening. It’s not easy: the world is loud and busy, and the voice of God often comes in a low whisper, as the prophet Elijah discovered. For us to be able to speak to those around us, we need to listen to what they have to say – and what God might be saying through them. Then we’ll be able to present God’s message in a meaningful way and reach our world. 

This is Luis Palau.