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let us talk this over
Isaiah 1
In the past two weeks I have met with several groups of parents of children who are preparing for First Communion.
There is a deep openness in them, and evident faith. While many of them are not actively connected with the Sunday liturgy they are in relationship with God and many of them speak of often informally and even intimately chatting with God.
Perhaps their prayer is timid, beginning with a humble confession (I don’t feel like a very good Christian…) but such a gentle approach is first of all an expression of confidence that God exists and that God is real, and a heart-felt knowledge that God is always ready to respond to those who humbly ask.
Others might pray: Lord I’m at Mass every Sunday and I keep the commandments, so I am entitled to…
We know which prayer and which pray-er is more pleasing to God.
There is a little invitation hidden in today’s first reading which gives us a way of re-defining what it means to practice Christianity: the practicing Christian is one who responds to Jesus’ gentle invitation (in the words from today’s reading) at any hour of the day or night: “Come now, let us talk this over…”
Now there’s a great start for Christian practice: conversation (talking and listening) with Jesus who is God-with-us.
Before all else this is what it means to be a practicing Christian.
So…
…whatever weighs on your mind and heart today, go to God.
Know that Jesus is speaking to directly to you when he personally and hopefully invites you to “Come now, let us talk this over.”
Whatever is on your mind and heart, talk it over with Jesus.
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Upcoming Cafe Gatherings:
Send a name, date, place and time and I’ll share your invitation. Just initiate a gathering, send me the info, and turn up to meet with anyone else who wants to take an hour to chat about their experience of God.
Thursday 5 March 2026 10.30am
The Cafe at Harrison’s Pekapeka Rd Waikanae
Catherine
Ata marie Fr. John,
This is such a beautiful gentle approach to our Heavenly Father/Abba. Thanks and a great start to
my day.
Arohanui.
Lovely. A quiet chat with the Lord is surely just what we all need at the moment.
Such a meaningful few words. A quick AI search tells me that different translations include “reason this out “, settle the issue”, and even “argue it”. They all point to a meaningful encounter with God. To talk would be nice to be able to argue with God as some of the Old Testament figures did would be also a sign of a healthy faith. I’d like to debate with God though I’m sure I would lose every time
“Come now, let us talk this over.” is such a commanding invitation it speaks to me of negotiation not surrender. It is of a God who wants me to know that we are in a relationship of mutual love.
What encouragement! “Go to God!” Whatever the need/thought He will listen.
Thankyou!