Heart Trouble? Reflections on Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

August 26, 2012 by Alyce McKenzie

Continued from Page 1

I was on the phone with a relative. They were complaining about a run-in with another relative and starting a familiar litany of the person's failings. I said, "Yes, but even given all that, have you ever noticed that _______ is one terrific listener? She's always willing to put her concerns on hold and listen when you need her to." That made for a shorter conversation, but when it was over I felt purified, the way passing up an opportunity to engage in negativity gossip always makes us feel.

"There is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile, but the things that come out are what defile" (Mk. 7:15).

Most people get heart checkups and start watching what goes into their mouths. Jesus recommends that we check out our hearts and then start watching what comes out of them!

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About Alyce McKenzie

Alyce M. McKenzie is the George W. and Nell Ayers Le Van Professor of Preaching and Worship at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University.

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