The Pursuit of genuine (Homily for Thursday of the 10th week in ordinary time year II June 13 2024

Homily for Thursday of the 10th week in ordinary time year II June 13 2024

The Pursuit of genuine righteousness 

1 Kings 18:41-46; Psalm 65; Matthew 5:20-26

Dear brothers and sisters,

In today's Gospel, Christ calls us to transcend the superficial piety exemplified by the Scribes and Pharisees, urging us towards a deeper, more authentic spirituality. The reproof of the Scribes and Pharisees by Jesus is not an act of condemnation but an invitation to sincere repentance and self-examination.

Christ's message to His disciples, and to us, is clear: avoid the pitfalls of hypocrisy. It is not enough to be seen as righteous; one must embody righteousness. The proximity to goodness does not guarantee transformation. Thus, Jesus implores His followers to ensure that their outward appearance of holiness is matched by their inner virtue.

This teaching prompts us to introspect: Are we fulfilling the duties of our roles, living up to our names, and honoring our associations? Or are we merely basking in the glory afforded by these titles without meeting their inherent responsibilities?

We must acknowledge that human perception is limited and can be influenced, but divine omniscience cannot be deceived. Our actions should be guided not by the accolades of others but by the voice of a godly conscience. Authenticity demands that if we cannot meet the expectations of our roles, we should step aside; if we cannot uphold the honor of our names, we should relinquish them; if we cannot commit to the tenets of our associations, we should disassociate.

In the end, it is not the perceptions of others that will define us, but the truth of our character in the eyes of God. Amen.

God bless you