February 11, 2025

Mark 7:1-13

In this reading, the Pharisees objected to Jesus’ disciples eating without washing their hands first, which was the Jewish tradition.  In fact, the Jewish tradition included many sound hygiene practices handed down over the centuries that could result in less transmission of disease, and these could have been divinely inspired to begin with, to be sure.  However, now the Pharisees criticizing the disciples for not following the Jewish tradition.

In response, Jesus calls them hypocrites, quoting he prophet Isaiah, because they put human rules about hygiene above God’s commandments to open our hearts.  He says, “You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.”

Even now, people who are Christian in name only put their human ideas and beliefs above the word of God. They disregard God’s commandment to live in love, and put instead operate from cruelty, putting hard-hearted laws and rules in place of God.  And yet still have the temerity to call this religion.  The celestial angels cry out, “How dare they! How dare they!”

That is all.

Personal:  You have learned of the loss of a family friend. The angels are bending down to minister to her as she is a beloved child of God. There is nothing to fear. Amen.