"The Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, as one man speaks to another. Moses would then return to the camp" (Ex 33:11) and tell the people the Lord's wishes. The Lord also directed His people with the cloud which settled down over the meeting tent. When the cloud moved, the people moved. This communication system was simple and easy to follow. Nevertheless, it didn't work. The chosen people refused to follow Moses into the promised land because they were afraid (see Nm 14:9-10).

In the new covenant, the Lord communicates not only through people and things outside us, but also from inside us because He lives in us (Jn 6:56; 17:23). Moreover, He not only tells us what to do but also has given us a new nature through Baptism so that we are able to do His will. Because of Jesus, we can communicate deeply and intimately with the Father in the Spirit.

If we have difficulties hearing and therefore loving the Lord, we need only renew our baptismal promises and live fully our Baptism by repenting of our sins, submitting to the authority of the Church, daily hearing and living the Bible, and sharing our faith. Jesus promised: "Whoever is of God hears every word God speaks" (Jn 8:47).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 4, 2013

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