REMOVING THE MASK OF HYPOCRISY ~ CookingFood.Org

“HONEY FROM THE ROCK”

Daily Reflections

Monday, 28^th August 2017.

Twenty First Week in Ordinary Time

Memorial of St. Augustine. Bishop and Doctor

1 Thes 1:1-5, 8-10;

Ps 149:1-6, 9;

Mt 23:13-22

REMOVING THE MASK OF HYPOCRISY!

The Scribes and Pharisees lacked the authenticity and goodness of conscience, needed to please God. Conscience is that secret sanctuary where we are alone with God and we hear the voice of the Holy Spirit speak to us in the depths of our heart. To violate that conscience, that is to go against what we know to be true, is to deny ourselves what is most important to our salvation. A good conscience is the greatest good we can possess in this life. It gives us peace, serenity and an assurance of our perseverance in good.

Christ is very harsh on those who lead others astray, especially those who have a responsibility to teach and guide others in the way of salvation. It is a great sin to give scandal and to lead others away from the path of truth. The salvation of all of us is linked together; we need to build each other up and help each other on the way to Christ. Others have a right to our good example and to our speaking truth. Jesus wants us to be sincere in all we say and do, so that the integrity of our lives may be apparent to all who see us.

Reflect, today, whether or not you struggle with the ugly sins of self-righteousness. Do you act religious, while at the same time fail to be truly merciful?

Prayer: Lord, when I fall into the awful sin of self-righteousness and pride, please humble me and rebuke me at the core of my being. Give me wisdom, courage and mercy in life so that I may be used to help all sinners return to You. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.