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Did you ever do something, out of fear, guilt, or obligation, that you really didn't want to do at all? Do you remember the ugly feelings that grew up inside you? Did you continue to try to smile anyway, and make the best of it? Perhaps, then, you understand the ugly feelings of which Jesus spoke.

These people had stayed in the abusive system, covering over their resentments with smiles, and showy good deeds, and rules that made them look pious. That is, anyone who could actually do the rules looked pious beside the majority who could not.

Jesus said it wasn't the brush-off, or the wash-up, that would protect them from the ugly feelings and their outcome. For indeed, ugly feelings will come out.

Jesus said what will really mess you up is what comes from inside you. What's inside always works its way outside and has consequences.

So how about some indoor housecleaning today. Of course, I think it's best to ask God or Jesus to help with the housecleaning.

If you go inside and face squarely what's there, then perhaps it won't have to work its way outside to square off with you and bring its messy consequences.