“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.” Psalm 51:10-12

For a little over six weeks, my husband and I have been in the thralls of updating and renovating our 47 year-old home. We have had new flooring installed, all the walls and trim repaired, replaced or/and repainted. We have parted with many things and kept those that represent good memories and bring us joy; we’ve washed, polished, painted, or replaced others. We are now in the stage of delight – we feel like we have a new “old house.” With the house transformed, we are very motivated to keep it clean and tidy. This project has become my metaphor for Lent.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.” I am not asking for a heart transplant, but a heart transformation. I desire to keep those memories in my heart that make me loving and compassionate and bring me joy. But I pray that the hurtful memories and disappointments that make me fearful, hesitant to reach out or serve generously be washed away. I want my heart cleaned out and made new. I desire the strength to part with old ways and old ideas that no longer fit in a renewed heart. In the six weeks of Lent, my hope is to be restored to “the joy of God’s salvation, and” to be able to sustain “a willing spirit.”

Amen. – May it be so, O God, may it be so.

(c) 2015 Eunice Cheshire

Spiritual Director

HeartPaths Core Faculty