I, the Lord, alone probe the mind and test the heart. (Jeremiah 17:10)
Jumping off the high dive or watching your child drive off
by himself for the first time—events like these can be exhilarating and
unnerving at the same time. The same can be said of the thought behind
the above verse. It is exciting to learn that God knows what you mean,
how you think, and what you truly intend, even when everyone else
misunderstands you. He knows your difficulties and supports your efforts
to love and serve him. But there’s also something unsettling in the way
that God sees everything in your heart—even those things you want to
hide forever. There’s no point in trying to fool the One who is
all-knowing!
It’s good to know that when God probes us, he is more
like a surgeon working with a scalpel than a lumberjack wielding a
blunt ax. The light he shines on your life is as warm as the glow of the
sun, not the cold glare of searchlights. Carefully, gently, he uncovers
the thoughts and intentions of your heart. Skillfully he separates
doubts and defenses, hopes and desires, purposes and attitudes. Even
when he reveals something that needs to change, he is quick to assure
you of his love and to remind you of all that is good in you. He doesn’t
probe just to point out flaws; he does it so that he can bring you into
a deeper relationship with him.
Lent is a good time to let the
Lord probe your mind and test your heart. If the thought of doing that
gives you pause or fills you with fear, take a minute and remind
yourself who is doing the probing: the One who died to bring you eternal
life. You are precious and honored in his eyes!
God is endlessly
patient with us. He extends his forgiveness and grace in outrageous
abundance. He is rich in truth, but also in love. So open your heart to
him today. Sit quietly with him in prayer, and ponder a short Scripture
passage, perhaps something from Mass that touches your heart. He will do
the rest.
“Father, look into my heart today, examine my thoughts, and strengthen me in your love.”
from wau.org
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