make that person unclean. It is what comes from within that makes a person unclean. Let
everyone who has ears listen.”

When Jesus got home and was away from the crowd, his disciples asked him about this
saying, and he replied, “So even you are dull? Do you not see that whatever comes from
outside cannot make a person unclean, since it enters not the heart but the stomach, and
is finally passed out?”

Thus Jesus declared that all foods are clean. And he went on, “What comes out of
a person is what defiles him, for evil designs come out of the heart: Theft, murder, adultery,
jealousy, greed, maliciousness, deceit, indecency, slander, pride and folly. All these evil
things come from within and make a person unclean.”

Reflect

Over the past one hundred and fifty years, scientists and home economists have taught us a
great deal about good nutrition, identifying vitamins, nutrients, and even micronutrients that
support health and a long life. Despite this research, along with advances in agricultural
production, distribution, and food storage, too many people – including children – go to bed
hungry every night and suffer from malnutrition.

Jesus explains this paradox when he teaches his disciples that what goes into a person is
ultimately not what matters. It is what comes out of a person that can have an impact on
our spiritual lives and on the lives of those around us. When we give in to our sinful desires,
acting out of pride, jealousy, anger, and selfishness, we hurt others and contribute to the
increase of evil in the world – the same evil that leaves some people hungry while others
have too much.

But we can overcome these sins. God breathed his very life into us. By living in accord
with his will, we can help to make God’s kingdom present on earth, a kingdom where all
have enough.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2023