By Ishongkun Kurbah, CSC –
Readings: Rom 1:16-25; Lk 11:37-41
When we wash the cooking vessel or vessel which part do we wash more properly, the inside or the outside part? For me personally, I wash the inside of the vessel cleaner and more properly than the outside because food will be kept inside, whether it is for cooking or eating. External cleanliness and decency are found worthy of praise in the human eyes.
But internal purity and holiness are found worthy of praise in the eyes of God who sees the heart of everyone. In the Gospel Jesus bluntly rebuked the pharisees who were so particular and obsessive about the observance of the external laws and rituals but were filled with greed and selfishness in their hearts.
We are constantly reminded that we are called to become pure and holy. And to attain this holiness and purity is not a one day task. Each day and moment is a personal and collective struggle. We must endeavor and strive. In this journey we must not forget God; we must remember that we are always in the need of his help and intervention.
If we forget him and try to walk alone we will be lost, and different kinds of desires will creep in our heart and mind and they will get stronger and rooted. The God who has called us to live a life of holiness will help us if we walk always along with him. Let us remember God not as a ritual practice, but out of the desire and longing for him.