TODAY’S WORD: Understanding Matthew 15:1-9 and Its Lessons

HIGH FIVE!

The image contains a logo and text related to Rotary International, a global service organization. The key elements are:

  1. The Rotary International wheel logo in gold on a blue background.
  2. Text that says “The World Needs More #Rotarians!”

This message is likely meant to encourage more people to join Rotary clubs and participate in their community service and humanitarian efforts. The use of a hashtag (#Rotarians) suggests this may be part of a social media campaign to promote Rotary membership and engagement.

The text “MATTHEW 15:1-9” appears at the bottom, which is likely a Bible verse reference. However, without additional context, I can’t determine its specific relevance to the Rotary message above it.

Overall, the image seems to be promoting Rotary International and encouraging increased participation in their organization through a combination of their recognizable logo and a call to action for more members.

You’re asking about Matthew 15:1-9, a passage from the New Testament of the Bible. This section contains teachings of Jesus and deals with religious traditions and hypocrisy. Here’s a brief overview:

  1. The passage begins with Pharisees and scribes approaching Jesus to question him.
  2. They ask why his disciples don’t follow the tradition of washing their hands before eating.
  3. Jesus responds by questioning why they break God’s commandments for the sake of their traditions.
  4. He accuses them of hypocrisy, citing Isaiah’s prophecy about people who honor God with their lips but whose hearts are far from him.
  5. Jesus criticizes their focus on human rules rather than God’s commandments.
  6. He gives an example of how they use tradition to avoid caring for their parents, contradicting the commandment to honor one’s father and mother.

This passage is often interpreted as Jesus emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience to God over rigid adherence to human-made religious traditions. It’s a critique of religious leaders who prioritize outward appearances of piety over true spiritual commitment and compassion.

It’s worth noting that the image you shared earlier referenced Matthew 15:19, which is a bit further in the chapter. That specific verse lists things Jesus says come from the heart and defile a person, such as evil thoughts and false testimony. Without more context, it’s not clear how that relates to the Rotary message in the image.

Ah, I see you’re referring to Rotary International’s famous “Four-Way Test.” This ethical code is a cornerstone of Rotary’s principles. Let me provide the complete Four-Way Test for context:

  1. Is it the TRUTH?
  2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
  3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
  4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

The first question, “Is it the truth?” which you mentioned, emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in all dealings. This aligns with Rotary’s commitment to ethical behavior in both personal and professional life.

Rotarians are encouraged to apply this test to their thoughts, words, and actions. It’s a simple yet powerful tool for ethical decision-making and reflects Rotary’s dedication to service above self and high ethical standards in business and personal relationships.

NO WORD TODAY

HIGH FIVE! (Here’s a story)

In the heart of Alberta, where the Rocky Mountains stand tall and the city of Calgary bustles with life, a unique visitor arrived. The Penn State Nittany Lion, a symbol of strength and pride from Pennsylvania, had come to explore this vibrant Canadian city for the first time.

As the Nittany Lion trotted through the streets, it couldn’t help but notice the friendly faces and the warm smiles of the locals. It was a far cry from the familiar campus of Penn State, but there was a sense of excitement in the air that was contagious.

The Nittany Lion’s first stop was the Calgary Zoo, where it marveled at the diverse wildlife and learned about conservation efforts. The zoo’s Botanical Garden & Prehistoric Park was a sight to behold, with lush greenery and ancient creatures that seemed to whisper tales of a bygone era1.

Next, the Nittany Lion ventured to Prince’s Island Park, a serene oasis in the midst of the city. It watched as people jogged along the paths, children played on the playgrounds, and couples strolled hand in hand. The park’s beauty was undeniable, and it felt like a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life2.

But it wasn’t just about sightseeing for our furry friend. The Nittany Lion was also there for an important event—the Rotary Convention 2025This gathering of minds and hearts from around the world was set to take place at Stampede Park from June 21-253. The Nittany Lion was eager to join in on the discussions and learn from the experiences shared by so many.

As the convention kicked off, the Nittany Lion found itself surrounded by stories of innovation, community service, and global cooperation. It was inspired by the passion and dedication of each attendee, who came together to make a difference in their communities.

The days passed quickly, filled with new friendships and unforgettable moments. The Nittany Lion even participated in a friendly game of soccer with some local kids, showcasing its agility and teamwork.

As its visit came to an end, the Nittany Lion reflected on its time in Calgary. It had seen wonders it never imagined, met people who touched its heart, and experienced a sense of belonging in this new place.

With a promise to return one day, the Penn State Nittany Lion bid farewell to Calgary, carrying with it memories that would last a lifetime.

NOT BAD… need to make some improvements… but, NOT BAD…