A Clean Heart
`
“Come now, let us set things right, says the Lord.” (Isaiah 1:18)

Spring dawdles and finally shows up.  Winter clutter is shoved to the back of the closet.  Windows crack open to freshness stirring in the yard.  As buds poke through the debris, a door ajar lets in the rays and our hearts warm.  It’s time to rake the last leaves into compost.  Time to get ready.

Who is the prophet speaking to?  Aren’t we the righteous?  We don’t squander our treasure at gambling tables.  You won’t find me in Sodom or Gomorrah.  But today’s scripture speaks to the riled-up righteous as well as to crimson sinners.  The work of justice belongs to all.  This call goes out to everyone.  “Let us together set things right.”

Where is my heart?  If we follow our heart it points to what we love.  Am I buoyed up titles, honors, where I sit at the table?  Am I quick to judge and slow to listen?  Do I burden others and enjoy whatever slack my privilege buys?  Do I sit high above the messy fields where struggles ensue?  It’s Lent.  It’s time to “learn to do good.”  The Pharisee in me wants to look sharp and say the right things.  But don’t listen to lofty words.  Look at what we do.  The child sees what we do and ignores the rest.  Let’s learn from small creatures about what matters.

How can a codger set in her ways “make a new heart and a new spirit”?  Of course we know what’s good.  But how to change course this far downstream?  It isn’t as hard as we fear.  Heroic sacrifice isn’t demanded, just a willing heart.  If we open up space this Lent, God finds us.  If we sing praise in croaky tones, God hears us.  In encountering those beaten down daily, we learn to love anew.  There You are, still in the ditch, not on that splendid throne.

It’s Lent.  God, help us to set things right.  Show us Your face.