In today's Gospel, Matthew 23: 23-26, Jesus challenges the Pharisees to cleanse the inner "cup" and not just the outer "cup". He uses strong words, not to shame the Pharisees, but to get their attention: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but inside they are full of plunder and self-indulgence."
The questions we need to ask ourselves are: Are we "cleaning" only the outside of our "cups," and neglecting the inside? Do we look good on the outside while our innermost self is filled with attitudes of hatred, deceit, avarice, greediness, lust, covetousness and other thoughts that separate us from God's designs and purposes for us?
If our innerself is cleansed, is shining brightly with grace, then we will shine on the outside also. We will, then, truly be a light to those around us. On the other hand, if our innermost self is filled with darkness-- negativity, selfishness, narcissism--we will spread that darkness to others. Misery on the inside leads to misery on the outside. Only we can change our way of thinking so that our lives are filled with peace, joy and happiness. Only then will we be a reflection of God to those around us.
Am I, are you ready to heed Jesus' message and make whatever changes we need to make to be living a live of grace and growing in holiness?
No comments:
Post a Comment