Mark 7:20-23 (MSG) He went on: "It's what comes out of a person
that pollutes: obscenities, lusts, thefts, murders, adulteries, greed,
depravity, deceptive dealings, carousing, mean looks, slander, arrogance,
foolishness—all these are vomit from the heart. There is the source of your
pollution."
These words of Jesus were pretty blunt. The Pharisees were very
concerned about the letter of the Law. However, they had elevated the letter of
the Law above the Spirit of the law. Just as Moses came to free the Israelites
from the bondage of Egypt, Jesus came to free all people from the bondage – and
eventual failure – of Law keeping. Reading through Leviticus you will find
detailed instructions on all kinds of ceremonial purifications, sacrifices and feasts.
Through generations of teaching and enforcement, the people became pretty good
at ritualistic processes. The problem is, they forgot the purpose behind the
process. Jesus turned everything they knew upside down by declaring all foods
clean. Without this huge section of the Law to consider, they were forced to
consider their hearts… a much tougher exercise. Are you more comfortable with
law keeping than heart checking? Is it easier for you to check off church
attendance and throwing a donation in the collection plate than checking your
motives behind your actions? Are you willing to serve in outreach ministry, but
tend to judge those you serve? To truly follow Jesus means to love with a pure
heart. Your service is worthless if your heart is not engaged. Listen carefully
to the thoughts that come to your mind and the words that come out of your
mouth. Even though you may not commit “horrible” sins, would Jesus declare you
unclean? He came to purify you … let Him - give your whole heart, not just your
checked off list!
Purifying Jesus, Clean my heart to know and spew forth Your perfect
love. Prick my heart to set aside the unseen sins that lead to judgement of
others and bitterness. Thank You for considering me worthy of Your sacrifice.
Today is a new day. I give You my whole heart. Amen
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