Newly elected Readers in Churches of Christ, Scientist, usually spend much time preparing to read in public. Could the congregation in these churches at the same time work to become new and better listeners?
Most Christian Scientists know that what they receive from a church service is closely related to their own study and prayers. We can help ensure that our next service is a healing one; we can be more receptive to what is being read.
I gained many insights when I truly desired and worked to be a keener listener. I noticed how often verses from Psalms and Isaiah in the Lesson-Sermon Christian Science Quarterly; turn our thought to silent praise. The parables of Jesus give practical guidance. And the Apostle Paul—what encouragement and direction he provides in his New Testament epistles! I realized we each can begin to build up our expectations from all the different books of the Bible.
