Whatever breaks your heart…

I once heard a pastor say, “Whatever breaks your heart is where God is calling you to serve.”

To me, this was good news. The things that broke my heart was familiar, known, attainable. It seemed at the time that people with similar backgrounds and “issues” as I had experienced, were naturally drawn to me. I didn’t have to go out of my comfort zone to find them. And, although at times it was uncomfortable to share or discuss certain issues, God seemed to provide the grace and peace I needed every step of the way.

Until today, that phrase, whatever breaks your heart, seemed right. And then…

Our church is beginning a new series for the months of January and February. The series is based on the book, The Hole in Our Gospel, by Richard Stearns. This morning we had sort of an introduction to the book…I found it pretty interesting, so I purchased the book so I could read and study along at home.

God is so funny…usually I say good. But God loves to mess with me. The prologue…REALLY?? Can I not get any further into the book without God zinging me. Not an excited “AH-HA!” moment; more like a resigned “uh–huh”.

Bob Pierce, the founder of World Vision, once prayed, “Let my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of God.”

Dang! The things that breaks the heart of God. THAT could include anything! I mean, in this particular instance, the author has been speaking about his experience in Uganda, visiting a thirteen year old orphan who was caring for two younger siblings.

But to pray a prayer that asks God to break your heart with what breaks his? Are you serious? That is the unknown, the unfamilar…it could be uncomfortable, dirty…it could be anything!

Do I dare? Even as I ask this question, I know I have no choice. I will pray it; maybe half heartedly at first. I’ve been there before. But I know if God has put this prayer on my heart, I will be obedient.

2 John 1: 6 says, And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.

So, here is my prayer: God, please show me the things that break your heart, that I might embrace them as well. Show me where you would have me go…and the courage to go. Amen.