Mark 7:14-23
And calling again the multitude unto him, he said to them: Hear ye me all and understand. There is nothing from without a man that entering into him can defile him. But the things which come from a man, those are they that defile a man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And when he was come into the house from the multitude, his disciples asked him the parable. And he saith to them: So are you also without knowledge? Understand you not that every thing from without entering into a man cannot defile him: Because it entereth not into his heart but goeth into his belly and goeth out into the privy, purging all meats? But he said that the things which come out from a man, they defile a man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man.
Jesus teaches that true impurity comes not from external things but from the attitudes and choices that arise within the heart. Sin begins internally before it becomes visible in our actions. This Gospel invites us to examine our hearts honestly and seek God’s grace for conversion. Rather than focusing solely on outward appearances, we are called to cultivate purity of thought, intention, and desire. By allowing Christ to transform our hearts, we become more capable of living lives marked by holiness, compassion, and integrity.