Publications
Listening Hearts: Discerning Call in Community
Authors: Suzanne Farnham, Joseph Gill, Taylor McLean and Susan Ward
Listening Hearts draws on centuries of classic Christian literature to give modern readers a fresh understanding of age-old concepts. In three sections, it explores the themes of call, discernment, and community in practical terms. The outcome for the individual is a heightened capacity to hear God's call in their lives.
CALL
"What Is 'Call' for the Christian?" In Chapter One, the central theme is that God calls each of us. His call is constant, and at certain times and places, God calls us to particular actions. Sometimes, a call may not be so much a call to "do" as to "be." Call always requires response and obedience, but we cannot expect to be given a clear road map. The authors also point out that our calls are always evolving. We need to listen constantly, not only today but as each day transitions into tomorrow.
"Call to Ministry." In this chapter, we are reminded that ministry is the active response to God's call. We do not need to be ordained to have a ministry, for all Christians are called to minister to one another and to those around them.
DISCERNMENT
"What is Discernment?" In classical spirituality, discernment means identifying what spirit is at work in a situation: the Spirit of God or some other spirit. Discernment helps a person understand the source of a call, to whom it is directed, its content, and what response is appropriate. In discernment we move beyond our feelings to be led by God's Spirit toward action.
"What Conditions Help Discern God's Call?" The presence of certain conditions and activities, such as trust, prayer, patience, listening, and knowledge of scripture, makes discernment more likely. Meeting the conditions discussed in chapter four does not mean that we will discern God's call, only that real discernment is more likely.
"Is It God We Are Hearing?" Insights into discerning call are clearly and concisely pre-sented here. Embedded in this chapter is a description of the signs that help us recognize God's call. Although it is not likely that all signs will be present in any one situation, signs can combine to provide an informed sense of where God's Spirit is pointing.
COMMUNITY
"Why Is Christian Community Important in Discerning God's Call?" As followers of Jesus, we are called to live as Jesus did: in a community of faith. The authors describe the role of community in our lives. As a Christian community becomes grounded in prayer and discernment, discussions of call can take place spontaneously.
"The Value of a Discernment Group," Some people find it easier to have a specific structure to obtain help. Whether a group is formal or informal, spontaneous or structured, it can help to consider how to proceed. A specific structure for such a group is laid out in Appendix 1 of Listening Hearts.
"Supporting the Ministries of Others." The authors point out that support for ministry - lay or ordained - is absolutely essential. Whether it comes from a single person or from a group, the key element is thoughtful attention.
"Accountability for Ministries." Wise ministers encourage accountability, for without it, they have no community of support. The minister and support group must be responsible to one another, to the community that sustains them, and, preeminently, to God. A healthy Christian community will encourage its members to become aware of one another and accountable to one another.
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