Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees

Gen. 6:5-8.7:1-5.10, Mk 8:14-21. Today’s readings seemly focus on external realities. In the first reading, Noah escapes from the flood that covered the earth while in the Gospel, the disciples worry that they have little bread for their voyage across the Sea of Galilee. Our reflections can also begins from what is visible and tangible to invisible reality. It was the misdeeds of the people in the time of Noah that provoked regret in God’s heart and raised so questions, such as: How can God regret? Did He see the creation of mankind as a mistake? Is there room for change in the divine mind?

Similarly, the response of Jesus to the disciples evokes some questions: “Are your minds completely blind? Have you no perception? Have you eyes but no sight, ears but no hearing? Do you not remember how I broke the five loaves?” The Gospel ends with the question: “Do you still not understand?” Today, we are challenged to pay attention to Jesus and His warning: "Keep your eyes open and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees" (Mk 8:15). We must also beware of "the yeast of Herod", which is pride and,arrogance behaviour. We can keep away from this “yeast” by having continuous, intelligent and pious evaluation of the Words of God which will help us grow individually.

May the Lord deepen His love in our heart, so that in all things we may find our good and the good of others! Amen!! Good morning and have a pleasant day!!!