The Courage to Hear God’s Voice Today

The Courage to Hear God’s Voice Today

Reflection on Matthew 11:11-15

In Matthew 11:11–15, Jesus speaks about John the Baptist with profound admiration. He calls John the greatest among those born of women, not because John lived a comfortable life, but because he lived a courageous one—rooted entirely in God’s truth. Yet Jesus also says something surprising: “The least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” This statement invites us into a deeper reflection on the meaning of greatness in the eyes of God.

John the Baptist’s greatness comes from his mission: he prepared the way for the Messiah. He lived with conviction, fearlessness, and unwavering dedication. He challenged sin, called for repentance, and pointed people toward Christ with complete humility. John did not draw attention to himself; he directed every heart toward Jesus. This is the kind of greatness Heaven celebrates—not fame, power, or success, but a life aligned with God’s purpose.

But Jesus’ next words reveal something even more astonishing: those who are part of the kingdom—those who have received Christ—have access to a grace even greater than John’s. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, through the gift of the Holy Spirit, we are given a deeper intimacy with God than any prophet before Christ could have imagined. This means that greatness in the kingdom is not about status but about relationship—being united with Christ who dwells within us.

Jesus continues with a mysterious statement: “From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent are taking it by force.” This does not refer to physical violence, but to spiritual intensity. It speaks of the passionate, determined effort required to follow God in a world filled with distractions, temptations, and opposition. It takes courage to repent. It takes strength to forgive. It takes boldness to stand for truth. It takes perseverance to remain faithful when others walk away. The “violence” Jesus speaks of is the inner battle of choosing God every day, even when it is difficult.

Finally, Jesus says, “He who has ears ought to hear.” This is a call to attentiveness. He invites us not only to listen but to truly hear—to let His words transform us, challenge us, awaken us. Many heard Jesus’ voice with their ears, but only a few allowed His message to penetrate their hearts.

Today’s Gospel invites us to reflect: Are we listening for God’s voice? Do we have the courage to respond when He calls us to change, to serve, to witness, or to love more deeply? Do we allow our faith to be bold—not aggressive, but committed, intentional, and alive?

John the Baptist shows us that greatness in God’s eyes comes from fidelity and courage. Jesus invites us to share in that greatness by receiving His grace fully and by responding to His word with hearts that are willing to act.

Key Takeaway:

Greatness in God’s kingdom is found in courageous faith—listening to God’s voice, responding with conviction, and living with a heart fully given to Christ.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the powerful example of John the Baptist, whose courage and fidelity prepared the way for Your Son. Grant us the grace to listen attentively to Your voice and the strength to respond with bold faith.
Help us overcome the fears and distractions that keep us from following You wholeheartedly. Fill our hearts with the fire of Your Spirit so that we may live with conviction, humility, and love.
Make us instruments of Your truth in the world, and guide us always closer to Your kingdom.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.