I really love how Matthew has, through the power of the Holy Spirit, organised his writings.
Here in chapter fifteen, he shows how the Pharisees were blinded by their traditions and then show the faith of the Gentile woman in the region of Tyre and Sidon.
Imagine the religious reader of this book trying not to be angry as the truth of how God works comes alive. How confronting it can be when we realise the emptiness of our traditions, especially when they are done with the wrong motivations. Traditions can be fun and have good reasons behind them. I think about Christmas at this time of the year. It is certainly based on pagan holidays, not the actual time of year Jesus would have been born and many traditions have their roots on pagan practices. And yet we can freely enjoy the holiday and think upon the wonderful gift of Jesus Christ. The problems arise when the tradition itself becomes more important than Christ!
I love Romans chapter 14 as Paul tells us it is okay to esteem one day above another, or not to. But whatever we do, do it unto the Lord and for His glory. That is the point Jesus is making to the Pharisees. It is fine to wash your hands in a certain way, but don't forget the important things. Take care of the family (1 Tim 5:8), do things in love (1 Cor 13) and give God the glory (1 Cor 10:31, Eph 5:20).
I pray, "Lord, please keep our priorities straight. Let us enjoy our traditions, but not hold on to them. Help us hold on to You and keep you first in all things.
Amen."
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