As we continue reading the 5th Chapter of Matthew, we learn that Jesus is calling us to a higher standard. Following Him is more than adhering to a list of rules and regulations and thou shalt nots, but to honor and serve God with a sincere and loving heart.
In the first reading, we are told that if we trust in God and keep his commandments, we shall live. With our free will, we are given the power to chose good over evil. We will experience true happiness only when we seek the wisdom of God and conform our wills to His will.
The Gospel reading is a continuation of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. A few weeks ago, Jesus taught us the Beatitudes and explained how we find true happiness. The truly rich are not those who pursue the worldly values of money, power and fame, but those who pursue the heavenly virtues of charity, patience, and humility. In today’s Gospel, Jesus expands on the meaning of the 5th Commandment where we are told not to murder. He tells us that even if we are angry with our brother, it is a sin. He commands us to love not only those who love us, but also our enemies. Christian love puts aside fears, prejudices and hatred, and replaces it with compassion and love; a challenge for all of us in this divided world.
Jesus’ challenge to us is to go beyond the minimum. If we are merely following the rules without a desire to honor and please God, we’re missing out on the true joy that only comes from following Jesus. Let us focus our lives on doing all we can to bring the Kingdom of heaven to earth by loving and serving our brothers and sisters in Christ.
--Kathy Hejna,
Youth & Family Faith Formation Coordinator