inside out
Matthew 12:7 NKJV
But if you had known what this means, I desire mercy and not sacrifice, you would not have condemned the guiltless. --
Jesus was taking it inside. He was not interested in outward shows. Jesus was not a fan of encumbersome rituals done without purpose and when not done, used to condemn others.
Mercy comes from your heart, while sacrifice can be done without heart or with a wrong heart. Jesus was not discounting obedience. In fact, several verses later He makes a statement about the people He considered family - largely based on ones obedience to Father God. So, yes sacrifices often must be made, but not without a heart. And certainly not to show up others....which may be the larger point Jesus was making.
How often do I do something, not because its in my heart, but more so because I want to look better than someone else? The answer - too often.
Lord, forgive me. I choose to keep my heart open on your operating table. AMEN.
Created 6 months ago
