Today’s Thoughts: “People who know how to creatively break the rules also know why the rules were there in the first place.” (Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM) Perhaps this reflection by Fr. Rohr hits at the heart of what is taking place in the Gospel today. Jesus and his disciples come under attack from the so-called religious people of their time, who are challenging Jesus and particularly his disciple on how they are living out their faith.
But Jesus knows the rules. He knows that they are guides to living life not the be all and end all. When we place all our faith on rules and regulations, we are missing the point, we are missing the presence of God. Rituals and rules are present first and for most to help us on our journey of faith, they are not the be all and end all. They are tools to helps us. Sometimes they even get in the way. In the Gospel today, Jesus is challenging the religious leaders to reflect on their lives of faith. Faith is not doing all the prescribed rituals and action. Faith begins with what is in the heart. Faith is our living of life in the presence of God. Jeremiah knew this well. In our first reading he continues to inspire the people to have hope. Yes, things seem hopeless, but faith is about trusting in God’s plan and God’s presence. We might not always understand that plan, we might not always feel that presence, but we are to always have hope! Have a blessed, holy. safe, and healthy Tuesday everyone.
1 Comment
Mary E
8/4/2020 04:22:59 am
It seems people who are so bent on “religiously” following rules and regulations are very rigid in the way they live life. Much time is spent checking out the way the neighbor is living out the “rules and regulations”. Where is their sense of the presence of God?
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Fr. Paul R. Fagan, C.P. "Preacher on the Run"Just a few thoughts to help you on your journey through life...let me know from time to time what you think... Archives
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