Reflection: When something is “pure” it is 100% one thing. “Pure” means single origin arabica coffee beans. It means single malt whiskey. It means crystal clear water. It means pure gold.
Purity means that it is 100% one thing – nothing else.
Fundamentally, purity comes from being like God, i.e. having no pollutants.
The Danish philosopher, Søren Kierkegaard, wrote a book with the not-so-catchy title: Purity of Heart is to Will One Thing. The book is an appeal to those who mindlessly attend church on Sunday, thinking that by doing so, they are doing enough. Kierkegaard calls these nominal Christians to abandon any false sense of security that comes from being part of a dutiful herd, and to seek a new foundation for their faith – one based on having a personal relationship with Jesus.
Jesus is looking for people with humble, soft hearts – hearts that are open to change. These are the ones who will allow themselves to be purified. These are the ones who are eager to do good. Their eagerness comes from a sense of gratitude… and from a desire to delight God’s heart.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, You paid a terrible price in order for me to be declared pure and have a place in your kingdom. Thank you so much. My heart’s response is to honour you in what I do.