Scripture reminds us today during the Liturgy, that the most important thing is the heart, and a personal and intimate relationship with God, who created us to be with Him. We hear about the Pharisees who, through their concern with the rules of Religion, had their focus taken away from the heart of Religion.
This doesn’t condemn “human traditions” or the Jewish rituals, but rather brings the focus back to the root, the place where we honor God not just with our lips, but with our hearts. The actions, then, spring forth from an overflowing of love, love of God and love of neighbor.
This makes me think, too, of the older brother in the parable of the prodigal son. He had done everything “right” and still was far from the Father, because he was focused on his actions instead of relationship. And Martha, busy busy Martha, who wasn’t committing some horrible sin by doing the dishes! Her heart was not with HIM. It was focused on Mary, who “wasn’t helping.” Had she been focused on Jesus while she happened to be doing the dishes, all would be well.
What is it that takes your heart away from God? This God who is always there…waiting to love us, waiting to comfort us, waiting to direct our path. This is my question today, to me, to you. And the title above is my prayer. If we are present to Him, then His Presence will be our strength and our joy.
On that note, I’d like to invite you to go check out this beautiful column – just written by Michael Dubruiel – on bad things happening despite our efforts, on sudden and unexpected death…and on trust. It was his last.
I’d often heard my father speak of him warmly, as he communicated with him over the years about various publishing ventures. All I really know, is that Mike was a talented guy who used his gifts to serve the Lord. His heart was focused on God. This last column is a powerful testimony to leave behind…I’ve no doubt it’s just a glimmer of what those who knew and loved him, felt in his presence. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Amy, and their children.
Song on my heart today: Be Still My Soul.
