One thing that Jesus constantly combatted during his time on earth was a misinterpretation of what God expected from his followers. Jewish leaders appeared to be everywhere, reminding their fellow Jews to follow the Mosaic dietary and Sabbath laws to the letter. Matthew records many interactions between Jesus and these religious leaders, including the one today.
What the Law was intended to produce was people who loved God, who demonstrated that love by how they honored him and treated others well. In the passage today, Jesus points out that focusing on what people eat or do not eat is an example of focusing on the letter of the Law rather than the spirit of it.
How does that apply to Christ followers today? Since Christianity does not have a strict set of food laws to follow, is much of the Old Testament irrelevant for modern believers? Absolutely not. The same fundamental issue that Jesus addressed is at work in the church today as Christians so often focus on demonstrating the outward signs of religion while not showing a true heart of compassion.
If Jesus were alive today, he may have said something like this: “Whether or not you attend church on Sunday does not demonstrate your faith so much as what you write or promote on your social media accounts.” In other words, can we truly say we love all people as Christ does and then disparage races, socioeconomic groups, politicians, etc. on our posts and comments?
Oh God, fill me with love for all humanity. Let me see them as you do, with a heart that longs to demonstrate supernatural love to all. Jesus be my example. Holy Spirit, guide my thoughts, words and actions. Amen.
Go Deeper — Today pay close attention to your thoughts, posts, comments and discussions. Invite the Spirit to manifest his amazing love through you both online and offline throughout the day.
Photo Credit: Timothy Eberley