At the Heart of it all

A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination. –Nelson Mandela


There are times, it seems, when we are living in a two-part world: the part where our emotions take charge and help us understand and relate to one another; and the side of life that calls for reason, logic and rational discernment. For some reason, life seems simpler to manage if we parse it up. (What’s that expression about the only way to eat an elephant? One bite at a time?)

And within our churches, there are those who insist God is only to be understood in one’s heart. Even John Wesley trusted God only when his heart was strangely warmed at Aldersgate. But—and this is a BIG but (I cannot lie. . .)—John Wesley also read and learned from everything he could get his hands on: Catholic tracts and treatises, secular books and pamphlets and more.

John Wesley understood that he was created with an inquisitive mind, and God intended for him to use that mind to better understand God.

Jesus’ life was not a two-part life; it was fully integrated. He didn’t have a “spiritual life” and a “secular life.” He simply had a life, lived and held in the Light of the love of the Father.

And we are called to live likewise. Or at the very least—try our darnedest.


Monday Blunt question: where is your Bible? How often do you try to read it? How do you feel about that? Pray. 1 Chronicles 28:9

Tuesday Do you have other devotional or faith-related resources you enjoy? Consider sampling The Upper Room, Daily Bread or another. (Ask Heidi if you’d like suggestions.) Luke 2:41-52

Wednesday Think for a moment. During the week, do you carry the Sunday service in your heart and into the world? Are you a “living Gospel”? Proverbs 6:23

Thursday Today, consider reading something you expect to disagree with, whether an editorial or magazine, tract or even Bible verse. Seek understanding. Pray. Psalm 37:23-24

Friday As we approach All Saints’ Day, give thanks for those in your life who have helped guide your steps along your faith journey. Ephesians 1:15-19

Saturday Today, pray for yourself, that Christ’s Holy Spirit would strengthen your faith while allowing your curious mind to seek the answers it desires. Matthew 6:33

Sunday Pray this morning for those who are unable to worship with us. Consider calling or sending a note to a friend or other “missing saint.” Romans 8:26-27

The spiritual life is not a life before, after or beyond our everyday existence. No, the spiritual life can only be real when it is lived in the midst of the pains and joys of the here and now. –Henri J. M. Nouwen


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