TUESDAY, TWENTY FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
1 Thes 2:1-8 Ps 139:1-6 Mt 23:23-26
LIVING FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Paul reminds the Thessalonians, and us, that true ministry springs from sincerity: “We speak, not to please mortals, but to please God who tests our hearts.” Paul was not seeking applause or approval; his service came from a heart anchored in truth. That is the essence of an authentic Christian: one who lives for an audience of One. To bring this to life, think of a tree. Its beauty and fruitfulness do not come from painted leaves or polished bark but from deep, unseen roots that draw life from the soil. Likewise, our Christian life must be rooted deeply in Christ. Only then will the fruits of kindness, mercy and faithfulness naturally blossom.
In the Gospel, Jesus confronts the Pharisees, who were obsessed with appearances. They tithed mint and cumin with great precision yet ignored the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faith. It is as if they were washing the outside of a dirty cup while leaving the inside untouched. Jesus exhorts them to clean the inside first, so that the outside may also be clean. How often do we fall into the trap of appearances – posting online the perfect Bible verse, attending church, saying the right words – while our hearts remain untouched by grace? Authentic Christianity is not a performance; it is a transformation. It is not about how we look but who we are becoming in Christ.
Let us ask ourselves: Are we living from the inside out? Are our actions born of love, or of obligation? Are we rooted in God, or just trimming the leaves? May we allow the Spirit to dig deep, to purify our intentions and shape our hearts, so that what the world sees on the outside reflects the living Christ within. Then, and only then, will we shine as true witnesses of His love.
Response: O Lord, you search me and you know me.
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