A Better Question: What Breaks Your Heart?

​In life, we often ask, "What should I do about me?" It's a reasonable question. It helps us get fit, manage finances, and improve ourselves. But is it the best question? Jesus invites us to ask something deeper: "What breaks your heart?"

When we devote ourselves to more than ourselves, we leave more than just ourselves to show for our lives. This is the paradox of Jesus' teaching: true fulfillment comes not from self-improvement but from self-denial. Jesus tells us that saving our lives comes through losing them for something greater.

Imagine watching a group of runners. They are disciplined, strong, and full of life. But they didn't get there by accident. They chose a lifestyle that led to that reality. In the same way, we can observe people making an impact and wish we were doing the same—or we can step into that calling ourselves.

Jesus made it clear that following Him isn't just about receiving blessings—food, healing, or wisdom. It requires something from us. He said, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." (Mark 8:34) This means we must be willing to say no to ourselves and yes to something bigger.

So, what breaks your heart? What is the burden God has placed on you that you can no longer ignore? Maybe it’s a cause, a person, or an injustice that stirs something deep within you. Whatever it is, Jesus invites you to do something about it.

Next Steps:

• Ask the Question: What breaks your heart? Take time to reflect and pray about it.
• Answer Honestly: Don't rush past the discomfort. Sit with your answer and see where God is leading you.
• Act in Faith: Take a small step toward making a difference. Maybe it’s serving, giving, or simply starting a conversation.

​If we live only for ourselves, we may end up with a well-lived life but little to show for it. If we live for something greater, we step into the fullness of what Jesus calls us to. So, what breaks your heart—and what will you do about it?

Author 

Josh has been on staff at Lesmurdie Baptist Church since 2018. He is married to Marnel and they have 4 children together - Azaliah, Ezra, Zoelle, and Zion. What drives Josh is seeing people put their faith into action so Jesus can change lives in the here and now.

(This article has been written with the help of Chat-GPT for research and editing)