Tuesday of Week 5 – Genesis 1:20-2:4; Mark 7:1-13

This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.

The Pharisees and scribes accuse Jesus’ disciples of failing to uphold the traditions of their elders. So convinced are they of their own righteousness that they overlook the greater offences against God they commit by rigidly adhering to tradition. This raises an important question: do we behave in a similar way?

It appears that society and the Church are filled with hostility, with groups increasingly polarised against one another and individuals intolerant of differing viewpoints. People become upset when someone challenges their established beliefs or approaches. They are certain they know the proper treatment a doctor should prescribe, the right words politicians should use, how a priest should preach and live, and what evaluations a teacher should provide.

If you dive into online forums, social media, and other public discussions, you will encounter countless ‘experts’ who are convinced they possess all the answers on any topic they discuss. I have nothing against sharing personal experiences; they can indeed be valuable. However, too often these experiences are imposed on others’ beliefs, behaviours, and actions, leading to criticism of anyone who dares to think differently. People seem to believe their opinions should be regarded as absolute truth, as if they hold a monopoly on it. They focus on the flaws of others, pointing out mistakes without recognising their own shortcomings and the standards they should also demand of themselves.

I often find myself pondering the question, “What would You do, Lord, if You were in my position?” I tend to dismiss thoughts that seem unrealistic, particularly those that would require a complete upheaval of my life. How would You navigate my responsibilities, my family, my work, and the events happening around me? I’m not particularly fearful of the evil present in the world; what troubles me far more is the possibility that I might be blind to the evil in my own life. Lord, how would You live in my place? Please grant me a gentle whisper of encouragement and the courage to heed it.