Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.
But what comes out of the man, that is what defiles him. (Mark 7:14-23)
DEFILES: Jesus was reflecting on what he saw happening. Many steadfast Jews were diligent about strictly adhering to Mosiac Law. Yet, those same people were sinful in so many other ways.
Through the Gospel, Jesus tells us it’s not important what we put IN our mouths to eat. What’s important is what comes OUT of our mouths. Do we choose to use kind, loving words or words that hurt or demean?
He does not want us to concern ourselves with things of the stomach. Instead, we should concern ourselves with things of the heart.
What do we take away from this?
Going to Mass and spending time in prayer can provide a great foundation for a faith-filled life. Doing these things, however, does not give us a free pass to ignore God at other times, or disregard our call to love and serve him.
It’s great that we spend time with our friends and enjoy one another’s company. Doing that, however, does not mean it’s OK for us to avoid a friend who is going through a difficult time because it makes us uncomfortable.
Telling family members we love and appreciate them is a true gift to them, but saying those words does not make it acceptable for us to disrespect them by our actions.
God doesn’t want us to live a balanced life when it comes to loving him. He wants the scales tipped in his favor. He wants us to be all in.
From the Deacon's Desk 
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