Learning to Listen Like Jesus

Episode Summary:In this episode, Kia continues the conversation from last week’s discussion about the pulpit—where it came from, its power, and its limitations—and moves into what happens after we step down from it. Drawing from the ancient concept of the Bema, a raised platform used both for teaching and for communal dialogue, Kia explores what it means to engage in meaningful conversation once the preaching stops—and discussion begins.Through the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24), Kia unpacks how Jesus models listening not as passive silence, but as a deeply relational act marked by curiosity, presence, and compassion. She explores how our ability to listen to understand, rather than to fix or judge, can transform relationships, churches, and entire communities.Key Themes & Takeaways:🔹 Listening Beyond the PlatformWhen we step off the stage or pulpit, the rules change. Speaking is goal focused—but listening is relational. In conversation, we must learn to share space, take turns, and cultivate presence.🔹 The Epidemic of Not Being HeardKia reflects on her experience as a therapist, where countless people come to counseling simply because no one in their lives knows how to listen. Being heard isn’t about being fixed or judged—it’s about being understood.🔹 How Jesus ListenedIn Luke 24, Jesus listens to the disciples’ confusion and grief without correcting them immediately. Though He is the only one with all the answers, He withholds explanation until they are ready to hear. His listening becomes a form of healing, allowing grief to breathe before truth can take root.🔹 Listening as Validation, Not AgreementValidation doesn’t mean saying “you’re right”—it means saying “I see where you’re coming from.” Jesus meets His disciples on the road, walks with them, and reminds them of where they’ve been which leads to their ability to see who He is.🔹 From Marriage to the ChurchKia parallels this with couples therapy—how many conflicts resolve the moment one partner truly sees the other. Listening removes distortion and allows hearts to reconnect. The same principle applies to the church: listening well to one another—and to those who’ve been hurt by the church—is a form of evangelism reimagined.🔹 A Surprising InsightKia shares that when she offered therapy from a “Christian worldview upon request,” she expected Christians to seek her out—but instead, it was people hurt by the church who came. The ones hungry not for answers, but for a safe space to be heard.Scripture Reference:Luke 24:1–35 — The road to Emmaus and Jesus’ model of compassionate, curious listeningReflection Questions:When was the last time you felt truly listened to—without being fixed or judged?What prevents you from listening to understand rather than to respond?How might your church community change if listening was treated as sacred as preaching?Quote from Kia:“Listening isn’t about gaining information—it’s a gift we give so that relationship can grow. Listening is evangelism reimagined.”Instagram: @healdeeplovewideSubstack: https://kiagutierrez.substack.com/Website: www.kiagutierrez.com