Readings
I - Ezk. 43: 1-7
II - Mt. 23: 1-12
Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus instructing the crowds and his disciples to listen to the Scribes and the Pharisees because they sit on Moses seat; and not to copy their life that was a hypocrisy. They wished to be recognised, respected and revered in the public. They showcased their religiosity so as to appear righteous which in reality they were not. They were living a life of duplicity and debauchery. Jesus admonishes this type of a life of falsity.
We too like those Scribes and Pharisees seek for recognition and reward failing to remember, “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Heb. 4: 13). We are fragile, weak and sinners in need of the mercy of God. Shun self-promotion for that is an aversion to God for we are his children and He knows us through and through. Humble yourselves, acknowledge your frailty and accept yourself with sincerity. By this we become pleasing before the Lord. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to accept myself just as I am”
