REFLECTIONS TODAY
Considering that this passage comes immediately after the discourse on judging and correcting others (yesterday’s Gospel), Jesus offers caution about the futility of correcting those who are unwilling to be corrected. These are done with discernment. It reminds us of a similar saying in Proverbs (23:9): “Speak not for the fool’s hearing; or he will despise the wisdom of your words.”
Stray dogs growl at those feeding them. They do not value that act of kindness. Similarly, swine does not know the value of pearls. Attack could happen while giving the dog or swine something good. Correction is not to be pressed when it is not received.
GOSPEL • MATTHEW 7:6, 12-14
Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces.
“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the Law and the Prophets. “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.”
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