In last week's reflection on verse 1 of chapter 2 we see that St. Paul remarks that man condemns himself and is without excuse when judging others. God is the just judge who shows no partiality unlike us, who have often judged others wrongfully. How many times have we done so? Whether it was at our jobs or within our home environment, the tendency to judge others is something the entire human race shares. God will judge what is in the hearts of his people.
As we look at verse 17, we see that St. Paul's goal is to rouse the Jewish people at large, not to offend them but to stir them into taking a hard look at the lives they are leading. We need to take a hard look at our own lives as Catholic Christians and take heed of St. Paul's words, for these words are not only for the Jew to take into account; he is speaking to the Gentile as well. St. Paul has a way of giving a rhetorical argument to make people think about how they do things and why they do things. In verse 19-20 he says, "and if you are sure that you are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, a corrector of the foolish, teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth you then who teach others will you not teach yourself?" He asks those with the responsibility of teaching others if they are really teaching themselves. Teaching is a high calling and Paul is speaking to those who have the highest calling among teachers: to teach the word of God. He also reminds us that teaching is not enough; such teachers must live their lives as those who honor God. Whether we teach the catechism or teach at a public or private school it is important to teach ourselves first before we teach others. Otherwise, can we really say we are representing authentic Christianity or are we modeling authentic hypocrisy? Think about what St. Paul is trying to convey to the hearts of those who are reading these words.
St. Paul goes on to list stealing, adultery and dishonoring God by the Jews breaking the Mosaic Laws these offenses offend and blaspheme God and are bad examples to the Gentiles. St. Paul challenges the Jews to live a life for God without hypocrisy. We should also learn to examine our hearts and minds daily towards making a conscious decision to live for God as a vessel that is fit for the Master's use. This week , think about how you model your faith in Christ. Is it consistent or are you living one way at home and work and acting differently at church. The world is hungry for authentic Christians that model a consistent faith by showing love, forgiveness, and restoration. Ask the Holy Spirit this week to speak to your heart and guide you to change your life in areas that do not conform to His holy will.
I really need to tear myself away from all needless activities and unnecessary distractions in order to come closer to God in my daily life. God gives great graces to one who earnestly strives to improve his daily contact with Heaven. That man will see more in this earthly life than those who live mainly for this world's good things. As long as my mind and desires are controlled by earthly interests, I shall find it difficult to reach God. I must take definite measures to prefer God's company to human company. The struggle will become easier as I come to know God better.
Anthony J. Paone, S.J., My Daily Bread, Brooklyn, N.Y., Confraternity OF The Blood Of Jesus, Pg. 244
1. Why does St. Paul rouses the Jews to think the way they are leading their lives?
2. How does this scripture passage apply to your life?
3. What are you modeling to others as a Catholic Christian?
Lord, let Your holy grace fall on this sinful heart of mine, so that I may love most what is most lovable, know best what is most important, and desire first that is most valuable. Let me fear and hate whatever draws me away from You. I don not want to judge things as they appear, but as they really help me to please You more. Teach me to pray. Help me to love Your company and to seek it as often as possible. Make me aware of Your presence throughout the day. Amen.
Anthony J. Paone, S.J., My Daily Bread, Brooklyn, N.Y., Confraternity OF The Blood Of Jesus, Pg. 245