How is it with your heart? – A Reflection from Mark 6:14-29
This past week, Rev. Sia Puloka, from Tonga, shared a powerful message based on Mark 6:14-29 titled “How is it with your heart?”
The passage recounts the tragic story of John the Baptist’s execution. John, a courageous prophet, preached repentance and the coming Messiah. He dared to challenge Herod Antipas, a ruler in Judea, for marrying his brother’s wife, Herodias. Consumed by resentment, Herodias had been plotting John’s downfall for quite some time.
Rev. Puloka’s message uses this story as a springboard for introspection. In a world obsessed with material gain and fleeting trends, the story compels us to examine the true desires of our hearts. Are we chasing after things that offer temporary satisfaction, or are we yearning for a deeper connection with God?
Rev. Puloka emphasized that our hearts hold immense power. Just as Herodias’s vengeful heart fueled her desire for John’s demise, our words and actions can significantly impact those around us. We are entrusted with a great responsibility: to teach our children, friends, and community values to guide them toward a righteous path. Are we fostering a sense of purpose and encouraging them to pursue what truly matters, or are we getting caught up in the pursuit of fleeting things?
As Rev. Puloka reminds us, the good news is that God has chosen us. We have been selected to be messengers of this good news, the news of the Kingdom of God, a realm where love, justice, and peace reign supreme. This role requires a heart filled with compassion and integrity that reflects God’s light.
The story of John the Baptist serves as a stark reminder that one day, we will all stand accountable for our actions. With that knowledge in mind, it’s crucial to ask ourselves: “How is it with your heart?” Is your heart brimming with love and kindness, or is it burdened by negativity and selfishness? Take some time this week to reflect on Rev. Puloka’s message (if you watch it online, apologies for the sound). Let it be a catalyst for positive change, a chance to guide your heart on the path God has chosen for you – spreading the good news and living a life that reflects God’s love.
In Christ!
Pastor Sela
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