An Empty Heart

   We would not want to fill a dish with food without emptying and cleaning it first.  To do so would spoil the good by mixing with the bad.  Our hearts are much the same way.  We can’t be filled with the Holy Spirit if our hearts are full of earthly desires and concerns.

   In the early Church there were those known as the desert fathers.  These were men who separated themselves from society and lived an extremely spartan life in a small cave, hut or other basic shelter.  Many came to them for spiritual guidance and to join in their devotional way of life.  One of the questions the fathers would ask those wanting to join them was, “Do you bring an empty heart that it may be filled by the Holy Ghost.”

   We need to look into our heart on a daily basis.  There are many temptations and distractions that may fill us with worldly matters that hinder our ability to be filled with God.  If we are full of self or pride, there is little room left for the Holy Spirit.  When we fill ourselves with the concerns of this world we can’t focus on the things that really matter to our spiritual life.

   If we want to be filled with love, mercy and the Holy Spirit we must empty ourselves of all else and make room for God.

   Father, give me an empty heart that it may be filled with you.  Amen.