What Becomes Of The Broken-Hearted?

For once I am not quoting Holy Scripture!  The above words from a popular song have been chosen because I read some advice this week that priests, when they preach, should know that the people they are speaking to have had their hearts broken.  In hearing this, you might think first of the way that people’s hearts can be broken in love relationships.

But I suggest that once we leave the world of childhood behind us and enter into adulthood, we quickly become aware of the state of our broken world and just how much heart-break there is around us and within us.  And all sorts of things apart from love relationships can break our hearts.

In the Gospel reading today, we hear “The Beatitudes” which is a series of blessings by Jesus which forms part of “The Sermon on the Mount.”  Jesus, as a preacher, also knows that the people who are listening to him have had their hearts broken.  He tells them how they can be blessed.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”  The “poor is spirit” are those whose hearts have been broken and who absolutely know their need for God.  “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”  Those who mourn are those who grieve any sort of loss or death.

The message and promise of our faith is that we have a God who offers to heal the broken-hearted.  “Gospel” means “Good News” and the good news for us is that Jesus is the One through whom we can find healing and comfort and salvation.  But this is not automatic: in the homily I will suggest how we can do this.  

God bless, Fr Kevin.