The State of My Heart

The Beatitudes Overcome Racism – Part 7 of 9 (scroll down if you wish to read the series in order)

“For the things that come out of the mouth come from what fills the heart.” (Matthew 15:18)

Jesus wants His followers to imitate His compassion, forgiveness, mercy, and unconditional love because that is how He blesses us.  Most of all, He is concerned about hearts, yours and mine.  “Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).  

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8)

With the Spirit of Jesus in my heart, His goodness sheds light on the dark parts of my being.  This cleansing light reveals my negative, hurtful, and immoral thoughts, bringing them to my attention.  Since I want to become more like Jesus, I recognize the impurities, ask God to forgive me and to replace them with His qualities.  Such qualities as the Beatitudes describe: humility (I can’t do it on my own), sorrow (for personal and societal sins), gentle confidence (in God’s plans), a thirst for social justice, mercy, and peace. 

How can a pure heart help the cause of anti-racism?

The very presence of Jesus in my heart begins and continues to refine and purify my thoughts.  In doing so, I start recognizing Jesus in others. 
I see that Jesus loves all people, as imperfect as they may be, just like me!  So, I can love them, too! 
I see that Jesus bestows mercy on those who feel regret, just like me!  So, I can be merciful, too!       
I see that Jesus comforts the downtrodden, just like me!  So, I can offer comfort, too!
I see that Jesus brings joy to His followers, just like me!  So, I can bring joy, too!

I pray for God’s power and plans to direct my efforts to speak against racism.
I pray for God’s power and plans to bring comfort and hope to the oppressed. 

I know that God will enable me to be the hands, feet and mouth of Jesus.  In doing so, I will see God – in amazing action!   

I pray, “Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Remain with me, restore the joy of your salvation. Grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.” (Psalm 51:1-11)

Anything is possible with God!