Matthew 15

“Jesus replied, “And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?” (3). Criticized for eating with unwashed hands, which broke Pharisaic tradition, Jesus turned the accusation around. The Pharisees had ignored the heart of God expressed in the command “Honor your father and mother” to get more money for religious works (5). Jesus explained to his disciples that the real danger is hard hearts which produce “murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander” (19).

“I have compassion for these people ...” (32). Jesus has compassion for our physical needs, and he also sees our weaknesses and spiritual hunger and thirst. His presence satisfies our desires and softens our hard hearts.