Called by His Voice

Sometimes we wonder if God still speaks–if He does at all. We long for a voice in the noise, a whisper in the chaos. After the resurrection, Mary Magdalene didn’t recognize Jesus at first, even when He stood right in front of her. But when He said her name, she knew. His voice was familiar to her.

Jesus doesn’t just call once. He calls again—and again—and again. But how will we listen?
Perhaps this helps… Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd. He says His sheep know His voice. Still: like Mary Magdalene, we may need to be reminded that we know his voice. But, in a noisy world and a tumultuous life, recognition takes practice. Hearing his voice takes quietness. It takes time. And patience. Being available. But in all this: Jesus’ voice doesn’t change. He still speaks with clarity, compassion, and calling.

But, we’re not alone in our hard-of-hearing. In 1 Samuel 3, the young prophet hears his name but doesn’t know who’s speaking. It takes a few tries—and a little help from Eli—before Samuel realizes it’s God. Then he answers: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” God didn’t give up after the first try. Neither does Jesus. His patience is part of His love.

Maybe you’ve stopped listening because you stopped expecting. Maybe you’ve assumed God speaks to others but not to you. But the same Jesus who called Mary Magdalene still knocks on your door today. Revelation 3:20 says He stands at the door and knocks—waiting for someone to hear and open. He doesn’t barge in. He invites. Always gentle. Always personal. Always full of grace.

Today, try and find a moment or place of stillness. And then… ask Jesus to speak. Maybe through Scripture, maybe through silence, maybe through a gentle inner nudge. Don’t worry if you miss it at first—just keep listening. He’s not in a hurry. He knows your voice, and He longs for you to know His. Just: shush. And listen. And listen again. Until you hear his gentle voice. He’s speaking still.

When was the last time you slowed down enough to listen for Jesus’ voice?