Hearing the Shepherd’s Voice (John 10:27)

Abstract

Children in the twenty-first century have an array of voices exerting influence on their identity and spirituality. Children need a friend who knows, accepts, and is always present with them. Jesus identifies with the humble status of children through his physical childhood, interactions with children, and Sonship to the Father. He invites children to hear, know, and follow God’s voice (John 10:27). Listening in prayer engages the childlike wonder, imagination, and curiosity that are intrinsic to childhood while shaping children’s faith and identity into the likeness of Jesus. Research from a variety of sources in biblical, theological, pastoral, and psychological writing is measured through the methodology of practical theology. Personal ministry experience and other researcher’s experience of guiding children in practices of listening prayer have contributed to the formulation of practices for listening in prayer with children that can be applied in group settings in the church and at home.