Human life is often defined not just by what we see, but mainly by what we hear and how we respond to it. Listening means being willing to open up, not just being preoccupied with oneself. So, listening is not just a sensory activity, but involves the heart and the willingness to take responsibility, the responsibility to weigh, store, and realize the truth that has been heard in real action.

That's why Psalm 78 opens with the invitation, "My people, incline your ear to the words of my mouth." This invitation is not a simple request, but rather an invitation to open our ears, hearts, and lives before God, and to respond to His word with faithfulness in our daily lives.

Psalm 78:1–11 reveals three important parts. First, the call to listen (v. 1–4), where the teaching is likened to a "riddle from antiquity" that should not just pass by the ear, but needs to be pondered and understood. Secondly, the command to pass on the faith to the next generation (verse 5–8), emphasizing that faithfulness to God is an inheritance that must be preserved together. Thirdly, the example of the people's failure (verse 9 & 11), where the well-armed tribe of Ephraim failed because they forgot God's covenant. From this it is clear that the strength of faith is not determined by outward ability, but by the willingness of the heart to hear and remember God's work.

This psalm also reveals identity. The mention of Ephraim is not just a historical note, but also a theological affirmation that to forget God is to lose one's way. A nation or community that does not listen and does not remember will repeat the failures of its ancestors. Therefore, remembering both the successes and wounds of the past is an important part of faith formation. Collective memory is what strengthens the spiritual and moral endurance of God's people.

Friends of the Bible, the message of this Psalm remains relevant to us today. How many people today, despite being equipped with technology and knowledge, still fail to face the struggles of life because their "ears" are closed to the voice of truth. Therefore, listening to the word is not a passive act, but an active step that enables us to remain faithful, humble, and courageous in the responsibility of faith.

Listening means refusing to forget, means daring to face the past, and means passing on hope for future generations. Let us open our ears, then, not only to the voices of men, but especially to the teaching of God that shapes our lives. For true faith is born of a willingness to listen, and faithfulness to life is nourished through teaching that is remembered and practiced.