‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.’ Matthew 23:23
How simple to go through the motions - to appear moral, to appear godly. Like a white-washed tomb, we can mask our shallow intimacy with Christ, looking acceptable on the outside, but inwardly we are filled with death and desolation (Matt 23:27-28). We can even honor Christ with our lips but have prodigal hearts (Is 29:13).
But it is not sacrifice and offering in which God delights, but a broken and humble heart (Ps 51:16-17). A heart that has learned to do justice, to love kindness, and walk humbly with God. This is a life not marked by appearance, but posture. A posture of carrying a cross, and following weightier matters (Matt 16:24).
Lord, You are calling us deeper. Inviting us to live as people postured in worshipful obedience to You. Help us not manage outward appearance, but submit willingly in the deepest corners of our hearts, minds, and lives. For Your glory, for our joy, and the good of the world. In Jesus name, amen.
Learning,
AB
[Part 2 of 2]