REFLECTIONS TODAY
It is worth noting that Jesus specifies what kind of impurity the Pharisees have in their hearts. He says that their hearts are full of plunder and evil.
We are made aware that these men who follow strict external observances are not disciplined internally, for letting avarice take hold of them.
They are enjoined by the Lord to give alms to conquer their secret vice. I remember the pet projects of Julio Cardinal Rosales in Batangas and Manila, the Pondong Batangan and Pondo ng Pinoy, respectively. This is a fundraising project for charity, which is done by using cans and plastic containers as coin banks and then submitting them for collection. His instruction is never to give a big amount as a one-time contribution. He says trifling amounts are sufficient, but must be done with regularity.
The aim is not so much to collect a huge amount of money as to exercise the charitable spirit of the giver. By religiously contributing, even with the smallest amount, the giver inflames charity towards his neighbor and so combats selfishness, greed, and avarice.
First Reading • Gal 5:1-6
Brothers and sisters: For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery. It is I, Paul, who am telling you that if you have yourselves circumcised, Christ will be of no benefit to you.
Once again I declare to every man who has himself circumcised that he is bound to observe the entire law. You are separated from Christ, you who are trying to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.
For through the Spirit, by faith, we await the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.
Gospel • Luke 11:37-41
After Jesus had spoken, a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home. He entered and reclined at table to eat. The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal.
The Lord said to him, “Oh you Pharisees! Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil. You fools! Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside? But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you.”
Source: “366 Days with the Lord 2024,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.