Inside or out?
Hello,
Perhaps, like me, you were horrified to learn in the news this week about how many “forever” chemicals may be in our food. It is a term used to refer to chemicals that are sprayed on fresh fruit and vegetables that cannot be removed simply by a thorough washing. Scientists have raised concerns that there may be long term negative consequences of the use of these chemicals for both us and the planet.
Of course, we should be concerned about the lasting effects of whatever we eat not just on ourselves but also on our children and future generations ‑ but it is the wrong thinking that comes out of us that is surely the greater problem for now and the future.
The Bible records Jesus making a similar point when some people came to him concerned that his disciples were not washing their hands correctly, i.e. in accordance with the Jewish ceremonial practices of the time. Jesus’ answer cut to the quick. “What truly contaminates a person is not what he puts into his body, but what comes out… Words and deeds pollute a person, not food. Evil originates from inside a person. Coming out of a human heart are evil schemes, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, treachery, debauchery, jealousy, slander, arrogance, and recklessness” (Mark 7:15, 20-22 TPT).
The same rings true today. It’s who we are and what we are inside that’s the problem, and this explains why the world is in the mess it’s in. What we need is a change of heart, and that’s where Jesus comes in again.
It is Christ alone who can create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us, and this is the gift he offers to all who put their faith in him.
Warm regards,
Gavin
About the Writer:
Gavin Henderson is the National Ministry Leader for GCI in the UK and Ireland.