Benedict

Prayer for an attentive ear

 “An attentive ear is the desire of the wise.” (Sirach 3:29)

 

O deep, listening wisdom,

who am I to desire the desire of the wise?

I ask that you listen to a fool like me,

for I’ve listened enough to know that an attentive ear is not only the desire of the wise,

but also the source of their wisdom.

Give me ears to hear the laments of the broken-hearted.

Give me ears to hear the cries of the displaced.

Give me ears to hear the voices too scared to speak up.

Give me ears to hear the breath of persistent life.

Give me ears to hear the hidden rhythms of the earth.

Give me ears to hear the chorus of the universe.

Give me ears to hear the melody of truth.

Give me ears to hear the resounding echo of your love.

 

Listening one,

I desire that the ear of my heart be always inclined toward you,

and in the silent space of our mutual listening

wisdom will sing herself into being.

Amen