Lent: A Journey to Hope in Uncertain TimesSample

It’s common for us to find ourselves listening to respond instead of listening to hear and understand. Sometimes giving people hope requires that we listen and not respond. It helps center others as they work to find hope and solutions to their challenges, and it protects us from a savior complex—thinking we have to solve all their problems.

Respond

Ask God to reveal to you someone who needs your listening ear. Make time to be present with them today. Try to minimize what you say. Ask them follow-up questions with phrases like, “Is there anything else?” or “Will you say more about it?” Try to practice active listening: Repeat what they’re saying or ask clarifying questions without criticizing or providing solutions.