Thoughts for the Day

Luke 11:37-38 When Jesus had finished speaking, a Pharisee invited him to eat with him; so he went in and reclined at the table.  But the Pharisee, noticing that Jesus did not first wash before the meal, was surprised.

Curiously topical … almost!  At this time when hand-washing is our first line of defence against Covid=19, we are suddenly much more attentive to this hygiene measure and can at least imagine the Pharisee taking note.  But this was more than simply hygiene, this was a ceremonial washing that marked out those intent on remaining spiritually pure and untainted.  Once again, we find Pharisees and experts in the law taking time to listen to Jesus’s teaching and then inviting him home, presumably to discuss further.  Were they genuinely interested, hopeful that he would join their ranks or already on the attack? Jesus has been uncompromising but gracious in dealing with issues of the authority to forgive sins, association with sinners and Sabbath observance, but when it comes to this issue of ritual purity he really pulls no punches.  Before the challenge has been articulated, he replies, “Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness.”  Jesus contrasts their outward purity with neglect for the poor, and proceeds to make three “woe to you” statements highlighting (1) their concern for legalistic tithing but neglect of justice and love of God, (2) their love of status and (3) that their lifestyle and influence is leading others astray.  Harsh words!  But once again we gain nothing by “tut tutting” the Pharisees.  The question is whether any of these challenges could be levelled at us, and, if so, how we will respond.