In today’s Gospel reading on “The Tradition of the Elders” – “Now when the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem gather around Jesus, they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands.” Mark 7:1-2
The Pharisees and scribes were concerned that Jesus’ disciples failed to follow the precise, careful teaching on how one should wash their hands before a meal. They questioned Jesus why His disciples did not follow the tradition of the elders in washing their hands before a meal. Instead of engaging in a conversation to defend Himself or His disciples in this, Jesus dismisses their criticism as false and turns away from them and addresses the crowd.
At times, we may have experienced unjust condemnation. If we are in the wrong, then we must receive the condemnation as it were from God and repent. But if the condemnation comes from someone’s pride or error, like what Jesus faced in today’s Gospel reading, the response is to reject their error and refuse to engage in the conversation further.
We need to be aware and know that whenever we become defensive or argumentative, it is an attack from the evil one as he seeks to oppress us. Do not accept that abuse. Do not fall into his trap. The guide for us is the peace and joy that comes from the Holy Spirit. We need to always hold on to the truth and remain at peace, and that will be all the defense we need to make.
The Liturgical colour theme is green in Ordinary Time with green, white, and pink.
Green symbolizes spiritual growth in Christ, nurtured by the Church and the Gospel. Green represents new life, anticipation, new beginning, praise, flourishing healing, restoration, and hope. White symbolizes pure faith that listens to God’s voice and believes. Pink symbolizes heavenly joy, grace, sweetness, gentleness, and elegance.