WHAT DEFILES?

In Mark 7:13, "Jesus said, "There is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out defile."


"Jesus tells the Israelites exactly the opposite of what they had always been taught. God, in speaking to Moses, as seen in the Old Testament, proclaimed certain things were not to be eaten so as not to defile that person. Jesus, in the New Testament, changes that to explain that it's what comes out of the heart that defiles--envy, jealousy, anger, gossip, etc---separating us from God.  The early hygiene requirements are now changed to describe that it is our actions and attitudes that bring witness against us, not what we eat or drink.


Jesus said, "What's in your heart?   Do you show love, kindness, mercy, gentleness, and self control?"  We must force ourselves to look at our actions to see if they reflect the love of Christ.  If not, that is what defiles us. I admit, I do not always show that which Jesus asks of me; and I suspect Jesus knows it, too. Perhaps, I need to slow down my reactions to others so that I can use self-control, show more kindness and gentleness, as well as trust  that the other person has no unkind intentions.  If not, my actions will defile me.




This is a tall order for me, and I admit that I am still battling against my lack of self-control.  Won't you  pray for me along with your prayers for yourself and others?  "Lord, help me to have a pure heart with others by first seeking after you.  Amen."  (And thank you, readers!)


Jo INMN