The first service that one owes to the fellowship begins in listening to them; just as love of God begins in listening to his word sot eh beginning of love for the brethren is learning to listen to them. It is God’s love for us that he not only gives us his word but also lends us his ear. Christians especially ministers so often think they must contribute something when they are in the presence of others. This is the one service they have to render. They forget that listening can be a greater service to others than speaking. Many are searching for an ear that will listen. He that can no longer listen to his brother will soon no longer be listening to God either. This is the beginning of the death of spiritual life.
Bonhoeffer
