Appearances 1

Luke 11:37-42

I recall many years ago when I took part in a religious convention in Nashville, Tennessee. There were thousands of us, all leaders from various churches around the country, gathered together for three days to learn how to do ministry better. On the last day I noticed, as we all hurried to get inside the building (it was getting late and it was cold outside) we were walking right past a homeless person sleeping on the sidewalk in below-freezing weather.

We all looked good. We all were at the right place to be better Christians. But we passed up an opportunity for any of us – all of us – to help a homeless person.

Jesus has been invited to a Pharisee’s home. What causes Jesus to make his comments? What criticism is Jesus presenting? What should these religious leaders do?

As Christians there is often a “uniform” we put on. We might tote a large Bible, wear a cross lapel pin, have a “fish” (Ichthus) magnet on our car, or wear a t-shirt with a Bible passage printed on it. We may walk proudly into our place of worship. We may shop only at Bible bookstores. We may have a bumper-sticker that reads “My boss is a Galilean carpenter.”

All of these may give the appearance that we are holy people. But often times we fall into the routine of the Pharisee. We look good on the outside, but inside we are no better than anyone else.

By presenting us with the “woes” Jesus lists in Luke 11, we are also indirectly presented with the positives of how we should act. As verse 41 points out, we need to give from the inside. We need to be willing to give of our heart and soul, and not superficial, safe, risk-free offerings.

We should continue to be dedicated to our Lord – tote the Bible, attend church – but we also need to be certain we do not overlook justice and mercy among our fellow human beings. We must show the love of God that comes from our heart, and not make a show of pretend love.

DAILY CHALLENGE: How can you make your inside as clean as your outside?