Soul Snack 7/12 ... Of Habits & Hearts

Do hearts rule habits or habits rule hearts?

We are either men of desire or men of discipline. We turn our hearts to what we want to do above what we need to do. Alternatively our hands of discipline defeat our heart of desire and we seek first what we believe is most needed. What is the superior character trait desire or discipline, hearts or habits?

The answer is easy for any western anglophile (of British heritage) - discipline is the unsurprising answer, seeded in the now enshrined protestant work ethic. Habits are to rule hearts.

Yet to a native of the African continent or a South Pacific islander (how idyllic does that sound?) I suspect they would respond with desire. Hmm ... could they be correct? Should hearts rule habits?

Mary responded to her desire and sat at the feet of Jesus while Martha raged from the heart of discipline - yet it was Mary who received Jesus' approval. Mary's heart won!

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Mk 10:38-42)

The approval of Jesus is well worth the disapproval of the world.

Today's Soul Snippet:

It is easy for the God who is everywhere to meet me where I am.