In today’s gospel we hear that the Pharisees are putting Jesus on the spot because his disciples are not following the Jewish washing rituals before eating their meal. Jesus takes this opportunity to uncover their hypocrisy. They were not acting with sincerity. They only cared for their appearance and not what was within themselves. Their focus on externals led them to criticize Jesus.

Jesus pointed out their need for titles, places of honor, and special clothing which called attention to their status in the world. They were overly concerned with external rituals of cleansing. Jesus tells them their concerns are misplaced. He says, “Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile.”

The point which Jesus is making is that our focus should be on our “insides” which is to say our souls. Externals do not matter. Instead, we are to strive for integrity, honesty, genuine compassion, and a clean heart. Sin undermines these virtues and defiles the body.

Let us be careful to avoid living and acting for others to see. Instead, let us focus on the inside. May this focus unite is us more deeply with the Lord.

Sincerely,

Rev. Miguel González