Those who belong to the Lord follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit

Those who belong to the Lord follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit

By REV. FR. SAMUEL FREDERICK

Gal. 5:18-25, Lk. 11:42-46. In today's first reading, Paul enumerates the practices that punctuate the lives of those who are not moved by the Spirit of God and refers to their actions as works of the flesh. They have one thing in common: selfish people who do not think of anyone other than themselves. Paul also relates the qualities exhibited by those who belong to the Lord Jesus and follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These virtues show a real concern for others and willingness to give ourselves in commitment to the common goal. In contrast, the Pharisees and Scribes placed so much importance for the law, especially as it benefits them. In today's Gospel, Jesus accuses them of burdening people instead of trying to help them. Their version of the Jewish Law was distorted. Rather than a pathway to life, the Law was a heavy weight on an overburdened people. Jesus did not come to make people feel more guilty. Instead He invited them: "Come to me…, and I will give you rest."

Jesus contrasts how His critics observed the Temple tax while neglecting justice and love and says the rule of love is more important, but “without neglecting the others.” He did not campaign against the Mosaic law and only neglects it for good reason. When He permits an exception He explains the reason for it. The more we stress rules and regulations, the more we are tempted to judge others. Jesus did not deny that rules have a place, in this case, the paying of tithes, but He promoted the higher way of justice and love. It is good for us to question our motives from time to time. We may look good just because that is what is expected of us. However, if we are in the habit of judging others harshly, we may be losing touch with our inner self. Every individual has the power to live a good life, whether Jew or Greek. We are asked to look for this goodness in others before we criticise them. Before judging, we need to ask ourselves what are we doing to lighten their burden.

May the Lord inspire us with it Spirit so that we may bear fruit and be constant source of strength for others! Amen!! Stay safe, Peace be with you!!!

Our Social Media