Jacob Perikala csc.
Readings: 1 Kgs 10: 1-10; Mk 7: 14-23
The first reading of the day indicates that if I am with God, like Solomon, worldly things will follow. In the gospel reading, Jesus specifies that what defiles a person is what comes out of them—our intentions and ideas. God advises us to keep watching our hearts because they are in danger of sinning. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.”
God wants us to constantly cleanse ourselves and appropriately direct our hearts so that they may not be polluted or become distractions for others. We can keep them clean by accepting our vulnerability and allowing God to work in our lives. Solomon did the same, using his wisdom for the construction of God’s kingdom and to maintain peace in his kingdom. His thoughts and desires were centred on God.
In our lives, knowingly or unknowingly, we may try to judge others by their behaviour without knowing their intentions, labelling them as people with no values. Today, like Queen Sheba, we too are invited to clarify instead of misjudging the person. The readings invite us to purify ourselves and see the positive side of others so that we too become individuals who spread positive vibrations in society.