Memorial of Saints Paul Miki and Companions, martyrs
(I Kings 8:22-23.27-30; Mark 7:1-13)
You’re eating an apple.
You put it down to answer your telephone, but it falls on the
floor. What do you do? You’re unsure so you google “food falling on
the floor.” There are many entries for this category. Some say, “throw the food away.” Others talk about “a five-second rule” (if
you pick it up before five seconds, it is edible). Still others say that it can most probably be
safely eaten.
Just as today, there were different opinions in Jesus’ day
about eating with unclean hands. Some (the
pharisees in today’s gospel) saw it as ungodly.
Others wondered, “What’s the problem?” Jesus did not really take sides
on the question, but he did declare that there far more important things to
engage one’s concern. Justice – giving each
person his or her due – for example, is a major responsibility for all.
For sure, there is valid concern for cleanliness, if not in
washing hands before meals, at least in keeping waterways clean of contaminants. There may be laws to obey although in most
cases prudence should guide our actions.
Becoming just human beings, we imitate the Lord of justice.
