THE REAL DEAL

Then John's disciples came to Him, saying, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but Your disciples do not fast?"

Matthew 9:14

I still cringe when I consider how proud the Pharisees were of their regular times of fasting. When they compared themselves externally to others (even Jesus!), they felt more spiritual...more righteous....more godly. The externals of religion can be a dangerous trap. As we were reminded in class on Sunday, we can easily talk about forgiveness and not forgive...we can talk about acceptance and not accept...we can talk about God's grace and never extend it. Outwardly we can look just right and people are fooled, while all along our hearts are far from God. Even our finest performances do not impress God. He wants a "broken and contrite heart," not one that is puffed up about ourselves. Our only hope is to abide in Christ...to be aware of His sovereignty, His power, His right to rule our lives, and His presence. Perhaps this can serve as a test: can the people who surround us tell us only the things we do (or don't do) because they see the remnants of our religion, or can they tell us Who we trust and love and serve because they recognize His joy, His love and His forgiveness? I want to be the real deal.