Posted by The WORD in other words (2020) by Fr Roger Solis SVD – University of San Carlos, Cebu City
Thursday 9th Week in Ordinary Time
The Scribes and the Pharisees took pride in their meticulous observance of the Law. They di not only study but rigorously paid attention to all the details of the Law in the book of Moises. They tried to expound their interpretation of the Law, its implications in the life of people, making sure to avoid the possibility of violating it.
While they had noble intentions, some of them had lost sight of the basic values and principles. The pride of being an expert in the eyes of the majority had caused them to deliberately ignore the most basic demand of spirituality: putting ones heart, mind and should in God alone. Instead, they worship God superficially.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus reiterated the two great commandments: the commandment to love God above all things, and to love one’s neighbor. One can only become a person of love, a true disciple of Jesus, if one allows the Holy Spirit to become part of one’s daily life.
Jesus’ reminder is not only for people during his time; it extends up to the present time. But like most Scribes and Pharisees, many of us have gone astray. Many of us have lost sight of the very heart of the commandment. But what is also worth remembering is that even if we were not able to fulfill the commandments in the past, God always gives us new opportunities.
There is no such things as late in God’s appointment time. Everyday is a God-given opportunity to learn from our mistakes, to learn from our experiences. Let us therefore rejoice and be glad because God continuously give us new opportunities.
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