Autopsy of the Heart
Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile. (Mark 7: 15)
In chapter seven of Mark’s Gospel, Jesus goes against the traditions of the elders, threatening the old ways with his divine interpretation of the law, and flying in the face of those who are able to wield power through the enforcement of laws designed to oppress rather than free. Jesus again incites criticism from the Pharisees, who secretly are plotting to destroy him (CCC 574). He takes their dietary law and reveals its divine meaning: it is not what is eaten that defiles, but what comes from within (CCC 582). Jesus says food is not what defiles us, but rather that sin which comes from within us – from our hearts, the source of our passions. “From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.” (Mark 7: 21-23) The sinful desires that lie within our hearts can lead us to act in ways not in accord with the will of God. We are invited to look into the condition our heart, like doing the spiritual autopsy of the heart, to look for the root cause of our actions in order to get proper treatment. By regularly examination of our hearts, we are able to empty ourselves of sinful desires so we may do God’s will and love him above all things.
What areas of your heart that are at risk now?
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) Put all your sins into His hands in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and He will forgive you. There is no sin too great for God to forgive. All He want from you is a repentant heart.
Thank you, Lord Jesus our Divine Physician, for forgiving my sins. Strengthen and heal me so I can be free to share your love with others. Amen
Hail Mary full of grace…
Peace in Christ,
Father Vincent-Vuong Nguyen