Clean Hands (Lk 11:41) by Dr. Rich Reich

14 Oct Clean Hands (Lk 11:41) by Dr. Rich Reich

“But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you.” ~ Lk 11:41 (full readings)
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Rich’s Reflections:  Is the Lord welcomed at your table and are you ready to feast at His table?  A Pharisee, after hearing Jesus preach, invited Him to dinner, no doubt, because he wanted to hear more from this extraordinary man who spoke the word of God as no one else had done before.  It was not unusual for a rabbi to give a teaching over dinner.  Jesus, however, did something which offended His host.  He did not perform the ceremonial washing of hands before beginning the meal.  Did Jesus forget or was He deliberately performing a sign to reveal something to His host?  Jesus turned the table on His host by chiding him for uncleanness of heart.  Which is more important to God:  clean hands or a clean mind and heart?  Jesus chided the Pharisees for harboring evil thoughts (greed, pride, bitterness, envy, and arrogance).  Why does He urge them, and us, to give alms?  When we give freely and generously to those in need we express love, compassion, kindness, and mercy.  And if the heart is full of love and compassion, then there is no room for envy, greed, and bitterness.  Do you allow God’s love to transform your heart and mind?  Give freely and generously to Pregnancy Resource Centers who help women in need who are considering an abortion.
* Dr. Rich Reich is the co-founder of the National LIFE Runners Team.  He is married to Erica and lives in Colorado Springs, CO.  Full bio.
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Faith Challenge:  Make a clean heart and mind a higher priority than taking a bath, washing your clothes, or taking out the garbage.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, LifeNews, American Family, Vatican, Project Rachel..
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Our Prayers: Pray LIFE Runners Creed to End Abortion.  Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, unceasingly. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.
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Feast Day:  St. Callistus I
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Faith Quote:  “A clean heart create for me, God; renew in me a steadfast spirit.” ~ Psalm 51:12
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Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22