Often we forget to examine the Heart

Luke 11:37-41

What my mother taught me about going to someone’s home for dinner; 1) be polite and respectful, 2) eat what is put before you and make sure everyone has been fed before asking for more, 3) and always be gracious and have good-manners. 

Jesus’ mother I have no doubt had given him like advice and I’m sure it came in handy for Jesus is being invited into many homes for all kinds of things including dinner.  Dr. Luke tells us in chapter 11 about a Pharisee who extended an invitation for dinner.  Now I’m sure that both Mary and Joseph had instructed Jesus in all the customs of the Jews, and a big one was cleanliness; one was to always wash before eating.  Dr. Luke gives this account; “While Jesus was speaking, a Pharisee asked him to dine with him, so he went in and reclined at table. The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner.”  (Luke 11:37-38 ESV)

Jesus was the rising star of the younger Rabbis and for him to not follow an important custom of the people was very alarming, and more so to a Pharisee, for them it was all about keeping the rules for others to see.  Never forget the customs found in religion can often take the place of worship, it is not the outward act but the heart that God looks at.

Jesus knowing the mans thoughts, and aren’t you glad you do not have that ability, He said to the Pharisee; “Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness.”  (Luke 11:39 ESV)  How often the Spirit of God has spoke similar words to me, how foolish to trust God for my eternal salvation but not to trust Him in a business deal.  You and I would never call our host a fool, but Jesus does and it is very important to remember Jesus tells the truth. 

Dr. Luke records the following; “You fools! Did not he who made the outside make the 

inside also? But give as alms those things that are within, and behold, everything is 

clean for you.”  (Luke 11:40-41 ESV)  Often we forget to examine even the smallest thing 

that comes out of our heart, our thoughts and actions to do good to others, or do we have 

an arrogant and prideful heart, is that not what Jesus is telling us?

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice