Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore, let us go forth to him outside the camp, bearing his reproach. For we have no continuing city here, but we seek one to come.
Select a thought to read by choosing a collection, the month, and then the day:
“And the scribe said to him, ‘Well said, Teacher! You have spoken truthfully, for there is one God, and there is no other but He, and to love Him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love a neighbor as oneself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.’ And when Jesus saw that he had answered with discretion, he said to him, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’ ”
Mark 12:32–34
This scribe had caught a glimpse of the way of eternal life, and the vanity of ceremonies compared to living a holy life. If we ever really grasp the concept that ceremonies and rituals are worthless in God’s kingdom and that righteousness is a matter of the heart, we will not be far from the kingdom of God, either!