Matthew 23:23-24
Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices – mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matter of the law – justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.
For the first part of this summer, each week I took a different Beatitude from Matthew 5 and delved into its meaning. It was a joy to reflect on each “blessing” and its timeless purpose. In retrospect, my overall takeaway from the Beatitudes? Live humbly and sincerely with God! I decided to end the summer with a look at the “Woes” in Matthew 23. They aren’t nearly as famous as the Beatitudes, but perhaps they should be! I encourage you to read the whole of Matthew 23.
Our scripture above references some very specific offerings that were presented to God, a tenth of your spices of mint, dill, and cummin. The Pharisees had many other ritualistic practices as well – specific ways of dressing, washing their hands, and sacrificial giving were just a few. By virtue of all of these practices, they certainly looked the part of God-fearing people willing to abide by whatever God required! Today it’s easy to look back on these ancient times and laugh at the hyper-religiosity of the Pharisees. Their practices to us seem almost silly. After all, I don’t think I’ve ever left mint or any other spice in the offering plate.
But, perhaps we need to take a closer look, specifically at ourselves. When worship habits become meaningless rituals and rigidity in doing things “the way they’ve always been done” becomes a hindrance, then perhaps we’re treading on the same woeful ground. Furthermore, when we look at people and make generalizations based on their clothing, ethnicity, sexual identity, or vocation, then perhaps these “woes” are hitting us squarely as well. It’s often hard to identify the prejudices and unspoken condemnations of others that we hold quietly within ourselves.
What are the most important matters of the law according to this passage? They are justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Wow! These are powerful tools for governing our own lives, a church, or a whole country! Dear Lord, may we seek equal justice for all. I pray that justice would walk hand in hand with mercy, in each of us and within our country. May our lives be ever faithful to walk as Jesus taught us to walk and pray. May we truly be faithful in these virtues.
Blessings,
Diana
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