Wednesday

We get interesting insights from each other when we take the time to notice the things that bug us. What are the things that raise levels of concern, and what are the things that we don’t give much thought to? A good share of Jesus’ teaching seems to focus on our uncanny ability to minor in majors and major in minors. Today’s passage is one of those classic moments where we glimpse how, even with religious justifications, focusing on the wrong things can blind us to what is most important. In this case, a concern of what is or is not “clean” is of more concern to people than whether or not those under-resourced are being cared for. Jesus seems to be suggesting that things have become backward here.  

- In what ways do you see people putting religious purity concerns ahead of caring for people who are hurting or in need?

- When you think about the way that Jesus reached out with compassion and generosity to those that others considered “unclean,” what insight does that give us into how we order our own concerns?

- As we reflect on our own religious experience, are we bothered more by people who seem “unclean” to us in some way, or by the needs of hurting, struggling people not being adequately addressed?

- Do you sense any kind of invitation that God may be extending to you as you reflect on today’s passage? If so, take a few moments to talk with God about that in prayer.