In our Gospel today of Matthew 23:13-22, Jesus is chastising the scribes and Pharisees for their practice of swearing false oaths. He was addressing dishonesty that was the common practice in that day. Many people, especially the Pharisees and scribes had developed a deceptive system of swearing oaths so they didn’t have to follow them. Jesus warns his followers not to be like these people and be people of integrity.
Now I wish I had trouble relating this gospel today, but unfortunately, we are dealing with the same issues today. Who do we know today that spin and twist the truth, or make promises they don’t keep? Who are these pharisees of today?
The scripture today is challenging us to look at our lives. How is our moral compass? If we are truly followers of Christ, are we living lives of honesty and integrity? How are we doing following the 10 commandments? Are we living with honesty and integrity in our homes, our workplaces, and our social circles? If we call ourselves Christians, then we are also called to live to a higher standard than this world. It’s not easy, but it is so worth it!
De Colores, Deacon Kevin
