You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.
(Mark 7:8)
Once again, Lord, you emphasize the importance of internal holiness over external rituals. Today, we wash our hands for cleanliness. It is a simple act, not an elaborate rite. Help us to be even more diligent about our moral health.
It is from within that we defile ourselves and others. It is from our fallen human nature that we betray your law. Please help me today to pay attention to my thoughts and words, dismissing temptations to criticize and gossip.