7.14.23 - Matthew 15:8-9
How can awareness of the dynamic of enforcing rules without practicing grace influence our own behavior toward others?
Matthew 15:8-9
These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.’
Faith offers us a Way to live rather than rules to live by. We are told, “Play by the rules and everything will work out.”
But, there are many who do what they're “supposed to do” only to find that their lives don’t yield the expected result. Life can be unfair. Unexpected events can cause the best laid plans to unravel.
However, another contributing factor is gatekeepers who use “human rules” to bind God’s children and deny their humanity. Most often it is those in the seats of power who think it is their job to enforce the rules without practicing grace. All the while absolving themselves of accountability.
This is why we choose faith in God over human systems. One never fails. The other is never fair.
Reflect on the concept of those who enforce rules without practicing grace. Can you think of instances where you or others have experienced this? How can awareness of this dynamic influence our own behavior toward others?
-- Pedro Silva