ONE way we can

 learn and serve

 is by listening to others.

 Sometimes this happens in

 a phone call, when we are

 in the middle of a project,

or perhaps after an accident

and our sympathy and prayers

are needed. Perhaps a sister

or brother is facing conflict,

 or a young person needs help

 in making decisions.

Listening is a form of servanthood,

a way to reach out and share the

 love of Christ. Paul reminds

 us in Philippians 2:4,

"Let each of you look not to

 your own interests, but to

 the interests of others.

" As we reflect on associations

with people who have helped

shape our lives, let us remember

 with gratitude those who

have taken time to hear our

 concerns and to offer guidance

 for our faith journey.

Today is a new opportunity

 for each of us to listen anew

for our "Macedonian"

 call to "Come over

 and help us" (Acts 16:9). How will

 we respond? Let us be faithful in

 sharing the love of Christ.

From: Frances M. Alguire