Prompt:

All throughout scripture we see the "heart" discussed as having human characteristics and representing the internal state of the individual. Consider the following verses.

Proverbs 20:9

Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?

Jeremiah 16:12

But you have behaved more wickedly than your ancestors. See how all of you are following the stubbornness of your evil hearts instead of obeying me.

Hebrews 10:22

let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.

Reflect and discuss why the heart is spoken of in scripture (and in everyday life) as having characteristics and qualities other than biological cells and chambers. Are scripture and God interested in the anatomical heart? Why of all of the organs in the body would the heart be chosen to be described with such qualities?

Read the prompt and reflect on it. Then write out your reflection. Each reflection should be about a page long and should include biblical and scientific references as well as personal reflection.