When we think of a pure heart that loves God, we do not speak of outward perfection or religious performance. We need to think of something far deeper that cannot be measured through ritual observance, checklists, or appearances. The purity of heart described in Matthew 5:8 is a life that seeks to love God not only with our emotions, but with our minds and actions.

It can be easy to fall into the habit of doing things simply because they are expected of us. The liturgical calendar, for example, shows us when when we are supposed to celebrate various Christian holidays every year. While it helps us all unite around the same feasts and holidays, the rhythm can lull us into a place of comfort. After awhile we forget our love for God and focus on the ceremony of it all. These events, once good and beautiful, become routine.

Jesus reminds us that the outward act is not as important as the inward love. It fell in stark contrast to the Pharisees that worked zealously to uphold every iota of the law, but missed the one who came to fulfill the law as Messiah. 

Today, take a moment to assess your own heart. Have you forgotten the first flush of love you held for your Savior? Let your actions as servent caregiver, mother, brother, teacher, etc. be rooted in love, not obligation. When love leads from purity of heart, the natural outflow will be devotion expressed through word and deed. When we really love the Lord, our lives will live holy, obedient lives that encourage and point others to Christ.