Markus 7

 2020, 7 March

He replied, "Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules. 'You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions. "

Mark 7: 6-8 NIV

God rebuked the Pharisees, as is well known, that the Pharisees carried out traditions to show that they were religious. but their hearts are far from God. maybe like most people today including me. I can do things according to the rules without my heart being involved there to do God's commands. only want to do the obligations that the church or parents have set. I can do service or anything professionally, without my heart being for God.

Like Pharisee giving money to God because of tradition, if not giving looks like it is not spiritual, or later rebuked, or later ostracized from the community. but they disregard God's commands to respect parents or even love others.

indeed all knowledge or wisdom is useless as long as there is no love there. as if he wanted to help others even though he only wanted to elevate himself.

God, forgive me because I often do not care about the circumstances even not sensitive to the voice of God. I was seen to rely on God even though, I struggled with my own strength. God, please help me and give wisdom to me, cleanse my heart of sin and only focus on my original purpose in life, which is to seek God and build relationships with God. so that more people glorify God through my life.

"First let the children eat all they want," he told her, "for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs."

Mark 7:27 NIV

I will ask why Jesus used the parable of 'dog' isn't this rude?

Jews background at that time made the term 'dog' to Gentiles, and called himself 'children' of God. because at that time Jesus was still focusing on the Jews in his mission of service. at that time Jesus was away to Phenicia, outside the Israeli zone. because of that Jesus used parables so that people were not mistaken. but Jesus used the word 'kunaria' which means 'little dogs' so that the mention was not too rough.

because of this man's faith and conviction, Jesus paid attention and gave mercy, so that a miracle occurred at that moment. that is the second Gentile who received God's grace in miracles according to the book of Mark.

I learned that sometimes I can be more flexible, not picky in helping people, but help by considering their desires, intentions and faith as well. maybe sort of, well that's not my responsibility, but this person wants to ask for help and involve me. do you not want to help too if in fact you can help them?

learning from Jesus, lately it seems that 'compassion' continues to resonate in my ears. I also remember that I had received so much compassion from God through many people. let's pay forward.

Thank you Jesus for all the compassion I have received and it is endless.

Father, I want to rely on You because I cannot with my own thoughts and strengths. Lord, Help me, and give wisdom to me.

Let the name of God be glorified through my life. 

Lord, I give You my heart, 

I give You my soul, 

I live for You alone. Every breath that I take, 

Every moment I'm awake, 

Lord have Your way in me.

Thank you, Lord.

Let's enjoy today with You my Love ♥ ️🤗