We are pleased to share an article by Christopher Reed, Ph.D on his new book Sacred Conversations: How God Wants us to Communicate by Sophia Institute Press.
In the vast ocean of daily life, conversation is the current that carries us along, surrounding us at every turn. Whether we’re discussing the latest headlines, sharing our thoughts on culture, delving into matters of faith, reflecting on our work, or navigating the complexities of relationships, conversation is always around us.
Much like a fish relies on water for its existence, we rely on conversation to navigate our way through life’s ever-changing currents. Yet, despite its fundamental importance, we often overlook the power of conversation, only to realize its significance when we’re left parched, longing for meaningful connection.
What Jesus Teaches us about Sacred Conversations
Luke’s Gospel (24:13-17) provides a beautiful example of what Jesus had to say about conversations. In this chapter of Luke, we find ourselves on the seven-mile walk from Jerusalem to Emmaus with two of Jesus’ disciples on the morning of His Resurrection. It’s likely that these two travelers were related—perhaps even husband and wife—because they were traveling from Jerusalem back to their home in Emmaus. It was common for Jewish couples to travel together and with their families to Jerusalem for the Passover.
If you’ve ever been on a road trip with someone you care about–your spouse, best friend, children—you know that travel provides a great opportunity for meaningful dialogue. We can only imagine what Cleopas and his traveling companion’s conversation must have been about after witnessing the Crucifixion, and then hearing about the empty tomb and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It must have been one of sorrow, joy, confusion, excitement, and hope all rolled into one.
Scripture says, “While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, ‘What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?’ ” (Luke 24:15–17).
The words of the Risen Christ speak into the very heart of why Sacred Conversations matter, and how Jesus wants us to participate in them. First, they fulfill a promise that He made to us before his Crucifixion: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:20). These are the first words that Scripture reveals of the Risen Christ speaking directly to two people gathered in His holy name, and those words are about them—about their conversation!
His presence and question are a comforting reminder that He is with us in every encounter with friends, family, coworkers, and strangers. But how often do we forget this? Take a moment to reflect on Jesus’ words and how often you forget that He is present in your conversations.
Second, these verses show us that Jesus is not only present in our conversations, but He’s also interested in them. Jesus listens to what the disciples are discussing, and He uses
a question to invite a deeper conversation—“What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?” By asking questions, listening, and inviting deeper
reflection, Jesus provides us with a divine example of how great conversations should be practiced.
Finally, Jesus guides us in how we should treat these meaningful dialogues. We should welcome strangers into the peace of a Sacred Conversation. We should cherish the opportunity that they present. Jesus describes the travelers’ conversation as something that they are “holding.” Think about the things we hold on to—close personal items, perhaps a rosary or a wedding band, a baby, a puppy, or a dove before we release it to spread its wings and fly. We don’t “grasp” or “clutch” them because they are tender and fragile. We embrace them, we hold them—firmly, but gently.
Jesus’ own words provide the best scriptural example of why Sacred Conversations matter. They are gifts that allow us to grow closer to one another and to grow closer to Our
Lord and Savior. They are gifts to be honored and treasured—not taken for granted. Indeed, cherished dialogue was present at the beginning of our Church and remains central to our calling to glorify God and to love our brother and sisters as ourselves in our daily interactions.
Starting Conversations that Matter
In my new book, Sacred Conversations: How God Wants us to Communicate from Sophia Institute Press, I use Scripture, real-world examples, key scientific studies, and fun stories from my own formation to provide practical advice for how you can use sacred conversations to become your best self and build closer relationships with others and with the Lord.
If you’re looking to invite more grace into your daily conversations—like Jesus teaches us in Luke 24:17—I pray that you find time for sacred conversations each day—don’t take a moment of them for granted!
Author Bio: Christopher Reed, Ph.D
Dr. Christopher Reed is a speaker, coach, facilitator, and author of Sacred Conversations: How God Wants us to Communicate. Through his writing and engaging Catholic ministry, he seeks to inspire, educate, and help people discover and use their God-given talents to make the world a better place. Chris holds a doctorate in human communication processes from the University of Georgia. Learn more at OurSacredConversations.com.
