Those keen moments when a familiar Bible verse or story unexpectedly takes on new meaning can feel like a brisk and invigorating wind across my face. Or perhaps as David felt when he sang, “By my God have I leaped over a wall” (II Samuel 22:30). Or as two of Jesus’ disciples felt at Emmaus, their hearts burning within them (Luke 24:32). I feel new. Exhilarated. 

This might be the kind of necessary spiritual stirring Christ Jesus recognized when he said to his disciples, “Having ears, hear ye not?” (Mark 8:18). He was not referring to their or our physical ears. Jesus spoke rather of the need to listen for God’s voice within—to spiritually hear, and to be alert to whatever would distract from this spiritual perception that enables one to be and do good, which includes healing the sick. I like to think of Jesus saying, in effect, during his temptation in the wilderness, “Get out of here, Satan; I’m listening to my Father-Mother God—the only God.”

Our study of the Scriptures must include an expectation that we will receive the inspiration needed at that moment.