Set Things Right

Do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example for they preach but they do not practice. 

This is what God wanted us to do. Like Pharisees in the scripture, they tend to tell the faithful how pious they are. But their words are just mere words of giving reverence to God for it lacks of actions. Their goal is to step on pedestal of fame. They have disposed to political rhetoric and trash-talk.

This is the context where Jesus had the confrontation with the religious leaders in Jerusalem. It emphasized the Pharisees' desire for prestige and honor. They act solely in order to win praise from others. They acted like hypocrites. Jesus is mocking when He corrects the attitudes of the religious leaders. It was shown that they are not really genuine in their service to the poor. He reminded us to be not like them. We are called to serve for those who need us, for the poor in any aspect of life and marginalized.

An old tree is hard to bend. It is not easy to set things right. It entails changes which accompanied big challenges.

In our mission, we are challenge to walk our talk. We do preach of the Gospel and the doctrines of our church. But this does not end there. The best and most effective way of preaching and evangelizing God’s word is the way we live our daily lives. It will surely influence others to do the same.

For this season of Lent, we are called to perpetual conversion. This, too, is what Isaiah now rouses us to: “Come now, let us set things right!” We will ask His providence to work with His will and purpose for us. 

Come now. Let us set things right. The greatest among you must be your servant.  Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted."