First Reading: Ru 2:1-3. 8-11; 4:13-17; Psalm: 128. R. v. 4; Gospel: Mt 23:1-12

EMULATING GOOD EXAMPLES

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

Jesus respected and upheld the good tradition of his people. Although he condemned the life style of the Scribes and Pharisees, he however approved of their teachings that were in accordance to the law. This was because they occupied the seat of Moses and what they taught was a continuity of the teachings of the law which God handed to Moses. Moses handed over this law to Joshua. From Joshua it got to the elders, from the elders to the Prophets, and from the Prophets to the Scribes and Pharisees. But Jesus disapproved of the attitudes of the Pharisees because they contradicted what they taught.

In life, one may be a very good teacher but dishonest attitudinally. Some are good advisers and motivators but ill-mannered. Some spouses may not be faithful to each other but are good parents to their children. Some wives are very hard-working but are hostile and disrespectful. We all have our flip sides that we are not proud of which is capable of making a mess of all the good things we do.

Actions are affective. We can make a very powerful impact when our actions are in tandem with what we say. But we can become a rowdy empty gong when what we say are at variance with what we do. What Jesus wants from us is to observe and emulate the good in one another; to promote what is right and to amend the bad side of us. Because it is our duty as his followers to make positive impacts in the lives of people by our words and actions. As we thank God for the grace of good actions; let us also pay attention to our negative attitudes and ask God for the grace to overcome them. 

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, purify our actions and the intentions of our heart. Amen.