Today’s Gospel concerns a dispute between Jesus and several Pharisees and scribes. The discussion is about the value of the ‘tradition of the elders’ (Mark 7:3) which Jesus, quoting the Prophet Isaiah, defines as the ‘precepts of men’ which must never take precedence over the ‘commandment of God’. The ancient rules in question consisted not only in the precepts God revealed to Moses, but in a series of norms that the Mosaic Law required. The Jewish religious leaders observed these norms in an extremely scrupulous manner and presented them as the expression of authentic religiosity. They rebuked Jesus and his disciples for transgressing them, specifically the norms regarding the external purification of the body.

Jesus’ words caution us too, against the belief that outward observance of the law is enough to make us good Christians. Dangerous as it was then for the Pharisees, so too is it for us to consider ourselves acceptable or, even worse, better than others simply for observing the rules, customs, even though we do not love our neighbour, we are hard of heart, we are arrogant and proud. Literal observance of the precepts is a fruitless exercise which creates an embittered and judgemental heart.

Rather, opening oneself to meet God and his Word in prayer, seeking justice and peace in our families and communities, taking care of the poor, the weak, the downtrodden and being respectful of others are the hallmarks of those who observe the Commandments of God. God’s law is loving and kind, forgiving and healing because it calls us to become like God, always seeking the way of truth, justice, peace and goodness. Today let us say ‘yes’ to God’s commandment to love and ‘no’ to human rules that entrap us and others in unhealthy practices.

by Mike Humphrys