July 29, 2016

“Misdirected Passion”

In the beginning of Mark 7, the Pharisees and teachers of the law condemn Jesus because His disciples were not following the ritual cleansing laws which made their food unclean. According to the religious leaders the disciples broke their oral law which came from the tradition of the elders; however, Jesus shows no respect for the elder’s unwritten rules.  Instead, Jesus expresses his concern for what makes a clean or unclean person. Starting in verse 24 Jesus shows the religious rulers that he has no respect for their unwritten rules by leaving Israel and staying in Gentile country breaking down the walls of race, gender, culture, social status, and religion.  It is in Gentile country where Jesus finds a true disciple.  Jesus names sin in verses 21-22 so we know very clearly what rules we need to follow. What unwritten rules do you have in your arsenal? How do use your unwritten rules to condemn others?  During these uncertain times in our country I hear Christians wonder how they should react.  We don’t have to wonder what Jesus would do because in verses 24-30 Jesus shows us how we should respond to the anger and hatred often expressed regarding race, gender, culture, and socio-economic standing. In preparation for Sunday, read Mark 7:1-30.  After reading the text, ask yourself this question – What diversity walls do you need to break down in order to better engage people in this trying period of history? See you Sunday, Pastor Terry Busker