A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 23:13-22)
Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees: “You blind ones, which is greater, the gift, or the altar that makes the gift sacred? One who swears by the altar swears by it and all that is upon it; one who swears by the temple swears by it and by him who dwells in it; one who swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by him who is seated on it.”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus continues his rebuke of the scribes and Pharisees, focusing on their hypocrisy and their distortion of religious practices. Certain aspects of their teachings are exaggerated while at the same time they restrict others from access to God’s kingdom. Jesus exposes their manipulation of oaths, where they prioritize material possessions over the sacredness of the sanctuary itself. Jesus calls out their distorted priorities and their failure to grasp the true significance of prayer and worship.
God, help me distinguish between creature and creator, between what is for use in this world and what is of you. Keep me from prioritizing the things of this world, things that in themselves are good but meant to occupy only a limited space—money, material goods, food, pleasure, entertainment—to name a few. Give me the grace to make distinctions that keep me in your presence. Teach me to be compassionate and loving in fidelity to you. Through your grace, let me be a temple of the Holy Spirit, making my being a place fit for the dwelling your Spirit.
From the Gospel acclamation: “My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.” Saint Augustine, pray for us!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.