Lord, You have my heart.

Feb. 8, 2011

Daily Readings

Genesis 1:20-2:4a

Psalm 8: 4-9

Mark 7:1-13

Really quick update, while I actually have access to wireless internet. (Merci, starbucks.)

Just want to reflect a little on the Gospel, in Mark. The Pharisees question Jesus about his disciples and how they do not follow Jewish cleaning rituals (unwashed hands, more or less). They ask him why they do not follow the tradition of the elders. He responds,

"Well did Isaiah prophecy about you hypocrites, as it is written

'This people honors me with their lips,

but their hearts are far from me

In vain do they worship me,

teaching as doctrines human precepts.'

You disregard God's commandment but cling to human tradition."

Whoa. Jesus just straight up called them out.

First of all - how many of us (myself included) when hearing this reading think of someone else they know that this applies to. "I know someone who talks a big game, but I doubt their heart." I did this when I was rereading the Gospel. Shame on me to judge another before looking interiorly. There are, for sure, others who this applies to - but when has this Gospel applied to myself? When do I pay God lip service, when my heart is not really in it? Do I try to impress with my words but do not give fully with my heart? Words can inspire, but hearts change lives.

God desires our whole hearts, not merely us telling Him that he has our hearts. You must follow up your (hopefully) sincere words with action and a change in lifestyle. If you say you are a Christian, and say that you love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength - do it. No turning back.

Another point to comment on. Jesus criticized the Pharisees for clinging to human tradition but failing to follow God's commands. So dangerous for us still. We put our human wants and desires and silly traditions (ahem, superbowl) before our Father, God. It hurts my heart to think of the 1000's who were more excited to watch a game on a television this past Sunday than to receive the fullness of God's love in Holy Communion. It hurts, also, to think of the times when I have wanted to be anywhere but Mass.

Father, give me a greater desire of Yourself and Your kingdom. Help me to give You my whole heart. No holding back.