Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Reflection: Mark 7:1-13



Tuesday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time – Mark 7:1-13

In this Gospel reading, the Pharisees criticized Jesus and his disciples because they ate their meals with unclean hands.  It was a custom for all Jews to carefully wash their hands and thus purify themselves before eating.  They also had many other purification rituals. 

The Jews asked Jesus: “Why do your disciples not follow our tradition?  Why do they eat with unclean hands?”  Jesus answers their question by quoting a passage from the prophet, Isaiah: “This people honors me with their lips, however their hearts are far from me.” 

If Jesus stood before me I wonder if he would say those words to me?  It is easy to honor Jesus with our words.  However, Jesus hopes that we not only will honor him, but also love him and give ourselves to him.  For Jesus, empty rituals are not sufficient.  Jesus wants each and every one of us. He longs to have an intimate and loving relationship with each of us.


What is the relationship you wish to have with Jesus?  Is a superficial relationship with Jesus all you want or do you desire a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him?  Jesus wants all of us: mind, body, and soul!  Jesus is always waiting for us to take another step toward him.  He patiently and lovingly waits for us!  Today take one or more steps toward Jesus.  Jesus is waiting to embrace you!

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