Jesus is busy. Already, in the first chapter of Mark, people seek out Jesus for his healing, wisdom and peace.

Amidst this busyness, however, there is something special: "In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed." (Mk. 1:35)

Although Jesus is God, he makes time to be silent and listen to the Father's voice. This intimate time with the Father influences his decisions. After praying, Jesus decides to move on to the next town.

Listening for God, however, is not easy. Samuel will one day become a great prophet, yet today, even he has difficulty identifying God's subtle voice.

So how can we hear God's subtle voice in our lives? How do we know what the Lord would like us to do?

Like Jesus, we need to make time for quiet. In silence, we can bring an important question to the Lord and ask for guidance. Then notice: what arises in my heart?

Often, the path God wants us to choose will bring peace to our hearts or a sense that Jesus is close to us. God sometimes speaks with words. Sometimes, God speaks through his presence and deep peace.