Today’s readings speak to us about the importance of following God’s commandments. The book of Sirach reminds us that if we choose to follow the commandments, they will save us. Our psalm response reminds us that those who follow the law of the Lord are blessed. And in our Gospel, Jesus reminds us that he does not come to abolish the old law, but rather to bring about its fulfillment. Therefore, Jesus instructs us to follow the commandments, and to teach others to do the same.
What does it mean to fulfill the law? And what does Jesus mean when he tells us that our righteousness must surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees? The answer to these questions can be found in the very next verses of the Sermon on the Mount, when Jesus takes the commandments, and explains how they are to be lived. For Jesus, to fulfill the law and the commandments means paying just as much attention to our thoughts as we do to our actions. As a Priest I used to live with once said, this is the part of the Gospel where Jesus basically tells us “not only should you not do that, you shouldn’t even think about doing that!”
The reason for this emphasis on thoughts is simple, and is perhaps best summed up in this quote attributed to Lao Tzu: “Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.” As we go throughout this week, we ask the Lord to help us to turn away from any thoughts that may lead us into sin, and to always seek to truly follow God’s commandments.
This weekend, the Church celebrates the annual World Day of Prayer for the Sick. As a Church, we are called to show special concern for the sick: especially for those members of our community who are homebound or reside in long term care facilities. In our Family of Parishes, we have volunteers who bring Communion to the residents of the long-term care facilities, and we also offer Mass once a month in each facility. We also have volunteers who bring communion to Parishioners in their homes. Our Priests are also willing to visit with homebound parishioners to offer the Sacrament of the Sick when it is needed. If you know of someone who is homebound and in need of the Sacraments, please contact the office, or fill out one of the forms at the back of the Church. We are also looking for more volunteers to help with these ministries. If you are interested, please contact the office.
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Steven Huber, CSB