Tuesday, March 6, 2007

Today's Gospel


Mat: Jesus said "The scribes and Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Observe what they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on you, but they do not lift a finger to move them. All their works are performed to be seen. The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted."

I have seen similar behavior to the scribes in today's Church. The pompous clergy who revel in the show of fine vestments, who take the seat of honor at banquets, who enjoy (too much) the respectful greeting of "Father" in the marketplace. Their position of authority appropriately deserves respect. However, in practice they judge and condemn much of their own flock, tying up heavy burdens for them and callously watching (and enjoying) the struggle that ensues. Some go even further, and dispense heretical spiritual advice in order to promote their public "holier than thou" image.

Then there are the true vocations. The men and women of the Church who have the love of God in their hearts for their flock. The ones who work to really analyze the spiritual struggles of those who turn to them and do everything in their power to help. The servants. The ones who spread God's love through their very being. These are the good confessors, that listen with compassion and wisdom and truly minister to the souls that turn to them in need.

No comments: