Week 5 Wednesday – Genesis 2:4-9,15-17; Mark 7:14-23

What emerges from a person is what renders them unclean. Among the various “defects of the heart” that Jesus identifies, deceit stands out prominently. We encounter it at nearly every turn. It’s not just about telephone and email scams, or identity theft, although in such cases, it’s wise to maintain a healthy distance from unexpected offers, as they invariably serve someone else’s interests rather than our own. The chief priests employed deception to set a trap, seeking to ambush and ultimately capture and kill Him. They viewed the righteous One as a guilty conscience, for He challenged them on their iniquities and their self-serving behaviour, showing their disregard for others.

And what of my own conduct? Deception thrives on gullibility, simplicity, naivety, and a lack of caution. So how can I navigate this minefield? Ideally, I must learn to recognise an ambush in time to avoid it. A source of guidance in this endeavour can be found in seeking an understanding of God’s word, which illuminates my path and aids in discerning the thoughts and desires of my heart.

Lord, You fill me with peace and hope; You forgive my sins. Today, I offer You my heart. Please dwell within me and bring order to my life.