The description of God's appearance on Mt. Sinai is worthy of a Hollywood movie. This is a God too violent and terrifying to even approach, and we can understand why the people were more than happy to let Moses step forward and converse with God. And yet elsewhere in the Bible, God is like a gentle whispering breeze or a tender mother. He finally is manifested in Jesus himself, scarcely someone to be afraid of. The story should not make us afraid of God, but merely remind us of His awesome grandeur and power. This is only one aspect of God. The many ways in which each of us experience God are also valid - and God is to be loved, not feared. How do we experience God?

Why does Jesus speak in parables? The answer is simple: most people don't understand because they don't want to. Understanding spiritual teaching means personal challenge and change, and this does not appeal to everyone. They close their eyes, ears, and hearts to true understanding and remain secure in their own way of doing things. Jesus speaks in parables so his words will not be wasted on them. Those who listen with their hearts - who are open and searching - will catch the meaning of his words. Are their things that we reject vehemently or refuse to understand? Do we fear change? What challenges us the most? Let us always listen with the heart, and with a willingness to grow.