In addition to a CAT scan today I also had an echo heart examination. (Researchers are preparing me for experimental treatment beginning in Philadelphia next week. They are eliminating variables in me, their white mouse.) I thoroughly enjoyed the heart examination. I got to watch the image of my heart on a monitor and listen to it sounding like a Maytag washer. Not only was there the regular beat but the whishing sound of blood being pushed through chambers and arteries. How grateful it was to hear the technician say, “There is nothing here that will get anyone excited. It’s a clean heart.” What she meant was it was normal and routine. But that excited me. Those were good words. Obviously she wasn’t speaking of David’s prayer in Psalm 51. “Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” There isn’t anything in a medical laboratory that can do that.
There is no injection or detergent that can touch what David was talking about. He said, “Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your loving kindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity. And cleanse me from my sin.”
Our God is a fabulous God who doesn’t require us to accumulate merit points. The only act of contrition is that of our heart. If we want it and come with a repentant attitude, it will be done. I do need to mention the importance of the repentant attitude. He will not absolve us if we come to Him with no intention of change. The entire process is all about desire, intent and a willingness to become His temple. His clean temple.
Written by Roger Bothwell on August 14, 2012
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org