“[W]hat comes out of the man, that is what defiles him” (Mk 7:20).

Jesus offers a list in today’s gospel of what can be unleashed from within and then directed out toward others. These are examples of what defiles because, at some level, we make the decision to think about, speak, and put into action those thoughts, words, and actions.

To resist the temptation to defile ourselves and others, we can follow the lead of the writer from the letter to the Hebrews who offered a wonderful verse, which I pray each morning in my recitation of the Office: “Encourage each other daily while it is still today” (Hebrews 3:13). There are many that we will encounter or hear about each day that will do the exact opposite.

Our goal each moment is to resist spending any time or energy in supporting any thoughts, words, or actions that demean, belittle, or dehumanize. We can call those out who do so, stand up for those impoverished from these attacks who do not have a voice, but we must not succumb, engage, or in any way be lowered to the negativity unleashed. Otherwise, we become an agent in perpetuating the same vileness and poison already unleashed.

Our thoughts, words, and actions matter because we are all interconnected. Even what we ponder can be projected on our faces and directed outward without saying one word. Thoughts entertained can lead to words and actions that wound. We need to approach each moment more thoughtfully, resist reacting, and instead take some slow breaths, think, and pray about our response before we choose what to say or do. The only time our silence can be harmful is when we refuse to stand up for others when they disregard the dignity of a person.

Let us choose this day to align our thoughts, words, and actions with those of Jesus. What we think, say, and do to our brothers and sisters, we say and do to Jesus (cf. Mt 25:35-45). We resist defiling ourselves by never letting evil talk pass our lips and instead thinking, speaking, and acting in ways that empower, convict, and build up others. Our effort is strengthened when we choose to forgive any negativity hurled at us and instead meet the darkness with the light of compassion and understanding. We are not alone in our efforts when we call upon the help and strength of Jesus as we strive to become ambassadors of his transforming love.

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Photo: We can learn a lot about loving and caring for one another from the Holy Family. St. Vincent De Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton Beach, FL.

Link for the Mass readings for Wednesday, February 7, 2024