Why should Christians who have been set free be obedient to religious laws? It is a question that the Pharisees asked the Lord. The world around us can set this question before us. This is caused by the free will which was given to us as a fruit of God’s love. He wants the best for us. He will not stand by and observe while we destroy ourselves.

Today, the Lord is offering us the full possession of the kingdom, that we may live in his presence, enter into a relationship with him and take possession of all that he has promised us. Many of us are content living on the border of this promised experience.

Sin, attractions of this world, promises of worldly possessions and relationships keep us rooted to the border and we do not enter and obtain what the Lord has in store for us. We do not enjoy the fullness of life with the Lord even while here on earth.

We are called to put into action what the Lord speaks to us. It is not enough to be listeners who do nothing. As the Lord reveals his heart to us, we are invited to put it into action.

The laws that have been prescribed are there for a purpose. It is essential that we understand or try to understand the meaning behind them. We often do the external things according to the laws but are resentful and angry in our hearts.

We take the closeness of the Lord for granted. Many people live with no one or no power to turn to, not even having hope. We assume and live like them because often God does not answer us in the way we assumed he would. Therefore, we choose to live as orphans.

In today’s Psalm the Lord reminds us of his presence and love. That is to be living up to what we have learnt and choosing to trust in the Lord through thick and thin.

The Pharisees and scribes were concerned about the external things whereas the Lord was concerned about the internal experience. Jesus’ answer was “You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition” (Mk 7: 8).

Many people take part in devotions and rituals, without examining their hearts or seeking a relationship with Jesus. Let us surrender ourselves and ask him to purify our intentions so that in all we do his glory will shine.

PRAYER: Abba Father, may the spoken words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart, find favor in your sight. Amen