Profound truth about the Christian journey: it is not enough to merely speak of faith; our actions must reflect the teachings of Christ, beyond words to deeds. Why? Because recently the world has seen an incredible increase in lies. Not lies, but untruths, which are some satanic hybrid between truth and lies. Therefore, our faith must be a counterweight to that evil.
Devotional for 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
“Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: ‘The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.'” (full text at Matthew 23:1-4)
Beyond Words to Deeds
In this passage, Jesus cautions against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who were adept at preaching but faltered in living out those teachings.
The Peril of Hypocrisy
The Pharisees knew the law and taught it rightly, yet their lives were in stark contrast to their words. It is this dissonance that Jesus warns us about when we create an image of life, a whole of words, Bible passages, and declarations of faith. Still, the image does not correspond to reality because we live a sinful life without even trying to put the words into practice in our daily situations.
Such hypocrisy is unacceptable to God because it is devoid of love and truth, the two cornerstones of our relationship with the Divine.
Note that Jesus says, “do as they teach,” but “do not do as they do.”
Love and Truth in Action
As disciples of Jesus, we are called to a higher standard – to embody our faith in deeds, not just words. Love and truth must be the driving forces of our actions. These virtues should permeate our lives, transforming us into living testimonies of the Gospel.
Devotional for every day here: Daily Devotional
Jesus’ warning is a call for self-examination. Are we merely echoing the teachings of Christ, or are we living them out?
Recently, lies have increased incredibly in the world. Therefore, our faith must be a counterweight to that evil. Our faith must be more than rhetoric; it must be a living, breathing testament of Christ’s love and truth.
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, guide us to live our faith authentically, shunning hypocrisy. Let our lives resonate with love and truth, reflecting Your teachings in every deed. May we strive not just to speak of faith but to embody it, steering clear of empty words and embracing a life rich in genuine, Christ-like actions. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
To You
- Self-Reflection. Examine your life. Are your actions consistent with your proclaimed faith?
- Love and Truth. Ponder how love and truth can manifest in your everyday actions.
- Avoiding Hypocrisy. Reflect on ways to ensure your deeds align with your words, honoring God authentically.
