Read the Word:
Luke 11:37-44
Meditate on the Word:
I remember as a child being excited over the very large chocolate bunnies that appear in the stores every Easter. They were so large and looked so delicious. I could imagine all the chocolatey goodness that I would enjoy. And it was great until I broke the first ear off the bunny. This big, beautiful bunny that promised hours of cocoa-induced pleasure from the outside was completely and utterly hollow. It was literally nothing but a thin pretty shell. There was no substance inside.
The Pharisees of Jesus’ time were much like this bunny. On the outside, they looked really good, observing the letter of the law religiously. From the outside it looked as though they had it all together and were closer to God than anyone. They did the right things, said the right things, brought the right gifts, but were completely lacking in their hearts. Their insides were missing the love that God expects to find in His followers.
Many who would call themselves Christians are like the Pharisees and the hollow bunny. They will make a show of their religion, but have nothing of substance behind the veneer. They will give, but neglect justice and the love of God. As Jesus told the Pharisees, “These things you should have done without neglecting the others.” Undoubtedly, what we present to the world around us is important. But we must be people of substance inside as well.
Pray the Word:
Ask our Lord today to reveal any part of your life where your heart is lacking.
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