Inside Out

"Listen to me, all of you, and understand: there is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out are what defile." Mark 7:21
Some time ago we were acquainted with a couple who had one child, a daughter. They were very strict vegetarians and no refined sugars or processed foods ever came into their house. They believed that you are what you eat and they wanted to be as pure and healthy as possible. Their daughter grew healthy and strong. They also did not keep a television in their house. On several occasions, another couple would watch their child when they were away. This little girl would immediately scour the cabinets, looking for candy, sugar or other sinful delights. She would beg them to let her watch television, if just for a little while.

We all pretend to be pure and loving, but we know how true it is what Jesus says. The dark things come from within, no matter how strict we seem on the our outsides. Thank God, Jesus came, living as we humans do, understanding the challenges of this life. Thank God, he offers us forgiveness for our shortcomings and mistakes. Thank God, he offers freedom and release. May this day be one of counting on God for setting us free from our sin, rather than counting other people's mistakes. May we thank God today for understanding our brokenness and loving us just as we are.