A pure heart is not a heart that has never known struggle, but a heart that has learned to always return to God.
A person may focus greatly on what is seen outwardly: words, actions, and the image presented to others. But God looks deeper, to the place where thoughts, desires, and hidden choices are born. Therefore, the true work of spiritual life begins in the mystery of the heart.
The purification of the heart does not happen in a single day. It is a work of patience, repentance, and grace. Just as a troubled spring becomes clear gradually when the source of pollution is removed, so the soul becomes illumined as it separates itself from the passions and draws nearer to God.
Do not become discouraged when you discover weaknesses within yourself. The fact that you see the darkness is already the beginning of light. More dangerous is the person who does not see his wound than the one who weeps for healing.
Guard your heart from judgment, hatred, and pride, for these darken the vision of the soul. Nourish it with prayer, forgiveness, and the continual remembrance of God. A heart that seeks the Lord slowly begins to resemble the One it seeks.
The purification of the heart is not only the removal of evil, but the gaining of a new vision of the world. The pure in heart begin to see the beauty of creation, the image of God in people, and His work present in each day.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8)
