from my heart...

i was reading in matthew this morning and loved the pictures

 that jesus revealed to the pharisees and teachers of law.

he revealed to them that they were focusing too much on certain teachings

and the really important things were being ignored.

"you give to god one-tenth of everything you earn-even your mint, dill, and cumin. 

but you don't obey the really important teachings of the law-justice, mercy, and being loyal.

 these are the things you should do, as well as those other things."

it got me thinking just how important justice, mercy, and loyalty are. 

he then gives them the picture of washing the outside of their cup,

but missing the inside. 

*

women (especially myself) tend to put a lot of priority on cleaning.
i grew up learning from my own mother about the importance of it.

we tidy up our homes, our families, and most importantly ourselves.

we spend hours everyday working to make things presentable.

i think every woman knows the importance of a clean cup inside and out. 

but do we apply that same principle in our own lives to the unseen things?

do we make ourselves shiny on the outside hoping to cover up what is really going on in secret?

do we master the clean living room only to hide the troubles in our own home?

do we buy the latest fashion trends in hopes of appearing that we have it all together?

do we spoil our children out of the guilt of not being there?

do we make excuses for our husbands to cover up the hurt of not feeling loved?

jesus wants us to not forget the really important things. 

he is always reminding us that the inside is what counts. 

there is quick pleasure in a clean home, but there is true happiness in a peaceful home. 

i hope everyone finds justice, mercy, and loyalty today where it really matters.