These days we hear about a lot of suffering and tragedy. Everybody has problems. The bad news never seems to stop. And you have your own troubles as well.

All this can tempt you to close your heart. No, you can’t fix the world. And you have your own life to live. But don’t run the risk of ending up with a closed heart that can’t feel compassion anymore.

Sometimes we end up living cold and distant. Only a strong and healthy heart can resist this in a kind and loving way.

So ask God to restore your heart. Ask him to make it healthy and strong again.

 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

Ezekiel 36:26

Prayer for a strong and healthy heart

O heavenly Lord,

The struggles of life and the pain in this world tempt me. They tempt me to harden my heart.

Sometimes I’m afraid to feel. I’m afraid to hurt.

It’s easier just to look away.

Maybe it’s because my own wounds still have some healing to do.

Heal my heart, O Lord! Make it strong again!

Give me a heart like Jesus’ heart.

A heart that isn’t afraid to feel.

A heart that isn’t afraid to give.

A tender, loving heart.

Yes, I know this means I may suffer more, because I will feel more.

More mercy. More compassion. More patience.

But if you make my heart strong I will endure the pain.

For your Spirit will fill my heart and make it a wholesome, healthy place.

A place where your Spirit dwells and thrives.

This is the promise of God, for those who seek a strong and healthy heart.

In Jesus’ holy name,

Amen.