Discover the Heart of Christ
As we come to know Jesus, we are struck by the beauty of his welcoming heart. It’s a surprise that draws us in and transforms us. But have you ever stopped to consider the loveliness of Christ’s heart? Perhaps we think of God and Christ in terms of truth, not beauty. Yet, the whole reason we care about sound doctrine is to preserve God’s beauty.
A Heart of Tender Love
How does Jesus feel about his people amid all their sins and failures? The answer lies in the depths of his heart – a heart of tender love drawn to sinners and sufferers. Jesus’ heart upbraids the impenitent with harshness, yet embraces the penitent with openness. It’s a heart that walks us into the bright meadow of God’s felt love.
Perfect Balance and Proportion
Jesus’ heart is one of perfect balance and proportion. It never overreacts, never excuses, and never lashes out. Instead, it throbs with desire for the destitute and floods the suffering with deep solace. This is a heart that is gentle and lowly, always drawing us in.
Romancing the Heart of Jesus
Let the heart of Jesus be something that is not only gentle toward you but lovely to you. Ponder him through his heart, and allow yourself to be allured. Build quiet time into your life to consider the radiance of who he is, what animates him, and what his deepest delight is. Give your soul room to be reenchanted with Christ time and again.
The Secret to Spiritual Growth
When you look at the glorious older saints in your church, how do you think they got there? Sound doctrine, resolute obedience, and suffering without cynicism are all essential. However, maybe the deepest reason is that they have been won over in their deepest affections to a gentle Savior. Perhaps they have tasted the surprise of a Christ for whom their very sins drew him in rather than pushed him away.
Experiencing Jesus’ Love
Maybe they have not only known that Jesus loved them but felt it. This is the secret to spiritual growth – experiencing the love of Jesus in a way that transforms us from the inside out. So, come to Jesus with your burdens, and let his gentle and lowly heart draw you in. Your very burden is what qualifies you to come.
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