The disciples neglected to wash their hands before eating on one occasion.  My recent experience with an absent immune system (during my stem cell transplant) made me acutely aware of the importance of hand washing.  When challenged by the religious leaders about the unwashed hands, Jesus proceeded to focus on the heart issues people have that defile them rather than mere dirty hands.

Both are important … clean hands for eating, but most important, a pure heart for a life that pleases the Lord.

DAILY PRAYER:  Father, as the Psalmist said, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight.”

DAILY READING:  Num. 14-16;  Mark 7