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Scripture~Matthew 6.21 (CEV)
Your heart will always be where your treasure is.
Wisdom Story
An old pilgrim was making his way to the Himalayan Mountains in the bitter cold of winter when it began to rain.
An innkeeper said to him, "How will you ever get there in this kind of weather, my good man?"
The old man answered cheerfully, "My heart got there first, so it's easy for the rest of me to follow."
*Anthony de Mello. Taking Flight.
Comments
The "heart" is the center of will in biblical thought. "Treasure" is the direction of the affection and energy of will. In biblical thought "heart" covers what we mean by "mind" and "heart."
If I am struggling to proceed to do a deed or take some path I discern is Christ's will for me, what shall I do? Jesus' words remind me not simply to be more determined but to consider the matter of my heart. The struggle to follow Christ's summons may arise not from lack of courage or ability but of proper placement of my affections and will.
This same applies to churches. Many churches, rather than adjusting what they have been doing or trying harder to fulfill some mission, need to take time to pray together about where the heart of the church really is.
Suggested Reflections
Where is your heart? What might you need to remove from or add to your life so more fully to follow Christ's will for you? What does your church need to do to be more prepared and able to listen to and follow the mission God has for it? Explain your answers.
Prayer
Jesus Christ, may my heart and mind be aligned with you and intent, above all else, in following you. Clarify to me any thoughts or actions I need to let go of in order to open more to the benevolent and empowering flow of your presence. Amen.
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