god speaks through people we don't listen to
"No prophet is without honor except in his native place, among his own kindred, and in his own house." —Mark 6:4
The Church was born at Pentecost as the prophet Joel's prophecy about prophecy was fulfilled. Immediately after our Baptisms, we were anointed with the chrism oil as priests, prophets, and kings. This indicates the centrality and importance of prophecy in God's plan of salvation. The Church is even founded on the apostles and the prophets (Eph 2:20). Thus, the Lord commands us to seek zealously the spiritual gifts, "above all, the gift of prophecy" (1 Cor 14:1).
Prophecy means to give a message from God. However, to give we must receive, that is, listen and obey. Yet prophets are traditionally not received and listened to, especially in their native places (Mk 6:4), which is where the Lord usually sends them. Thus, the initial key to our prophetic ministry is to listen to the Lord speaking through those closest to us. For example, if a man doesn't hear God speaking through his wife, how can he be a prophet or even a Christian in touch with the Lord? If we don't hear God speaking through our parents, how can we hear God at all?
Listen to God speaking through those closest to you, who are often the most difficult for you to listen to. Then prophesy.
Prayer: Father, may I listen to You speaking through the person I can't stand to hear.
Promise: "Therefore, I am content with weakness, with mistreatment, with distress, with persecutions, and difficulties for the sake of Christ; for when I am powerless, it is then that I am strong." —2 Cor 12:10
Praise: Praise Jesus, our Life, Resurrection, and only Hope!
Reference: (For related teaching, order our leaflet, Seek Prophecy, or our audio tapes AV 14A-1, AV 14A-3, AV 14B-1.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, December 29, 2002
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 31, 2002