Homily Twenty-first Tuesday of Ordinary Time (Mt. 23:23-26) “How Scrupulous Am I”
Homily Twenty-first Tuesday of Ordinary Time (Mt. 23:23-26) “How Scrupulous Am I”
Jesus did not have much patience with those who were fussy when it came to religious law. As we read about his arguments with the Pharisees, we must keep in mind that he was not at odds with all of them. The Pharisees were generally admired among ordinary people. They saw them as trying to practice religion in a conscientious way, but sometimes conscientious people can go too far.
The Jews had the practice of tithing. Tithing, of course, means that ten percent of all one’s earnings should be given back to God as an act of worship and thanksgiving. When it came to crops that was also true. If a farmer raised 10 bushels of wheat, one of them needed to be given to the synagogue of the temple or the poor. The Pharisees were consulted if there was some doubt about how much should be given over to charity.
Jesus was angry because tithing had become too rigorous. Even garden spices like dill and cumin were being tithed. Every home had a little spice garden so that people might liven up their drab food. The amount of spices was extremely small, but some Pharisees demanded that even the spices raised in the home had to be taxed.
We all have our quirks when it comes to religious practice. Maybe we worry if we don’t have holy water when we come into church or if there are no bells at the consecration. People who are skeptical about religion might be amused by our religious hang ups. We must be able to step back and ask what is important. We also must be able to laugh at our selves when we are too uptight.
Reflection Questions:
- What religious practices do I place too much importance on? Do I ever ask myself if Jesus would really care about what I obsess over?
- For Jesus mercy was a non-negotiable part of religious practice. How do I extend mercy those who are not as strong in their faith as I?
Dear Parishioners,
I was shocked to see how many people are becoming infected in our local nursing homes because of COVID 19. I am sure it is breaking the heart of families who cannot see their loved ones in their time of need. When someone is suffering physically and then must suffer isolation this is a terrible burden.
Let’s try to pray for those have the disease and let’s also try to reach out to those who are suffering emotional trauma because they cannot be at the bedside of those that they love. A note, a phone call, or a letter of support would probably be most welcome.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over us today.
Fr. Mark