Dear congregation,
For twenty years Israel had been missing the LORD. The ark had returned, yet Israel’s heart had not. The visible sign of God’s presence stood among them, while their affections were scattered among strange gods.
Then Samuel spoke: “Prepare your hearts unto the LORD.”
To prepare means to set the soul. Our hearts are like Hosea’s silly dove, flitting floating between Egypt and Assyria” (7:11). Many voices are calling, until we come into the presence of God. Gather up the conversations of your soul, dear one, and place them before His law and gospel.
But be more than serious. Seriousness can easily be worn like a garment. Preparation uncovers the soul. That’s serious. What have I permitted? Where is my heart leaning? What sin have I savored? What duty have I delayed?
Such questions uncover our Ashtaroths. At least Israel’s idols were visible. Ours are covered within. We offer to them, small sacrifices throughout the day. By week’s end, our altar is littered with our offerings.
“Put away the strange gods.”
“Unto the LORD” is iconoclasm. Idols torn from their perch. We must wield the search-light of the Spirit (so read the Word!), who uncovers what we have hidden. Every idol is strange among a redeemed people. It has no place within a Christ purchased heart.
Still, remember this: all empty places will be filled (Matt. 12:44,45). This week (and always!), fill it with Jesus. Break all strange gods at His pierced feet.
This is the very first work of our communion week. Ask what Christ’s salvation is worth to your soul. What does His blood deserve from a purchased heart? The way to His Table runs through holiness, dear one, and every rival must be abandoned along the way.
Prepare your heart, dear one. Walk afresh toward Calvary this week. Bring your bundled idols with you. Smash them at His cross. The heart is prepared best, when its offerings to strange masters cease.
“One is your Master, even Christ.” Matthew 23:10
Your friend and pastor,
J. Lewis