Weightier things of the Law

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 23:23-26*

*First Reading : 2 Thess 2:1-3a, 14-17*

*Weightier things of the Law*

*1) Jesus Speaks about the Weightier things of the Law*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the weightier things of the law 

Here weightier things means, more important things. These things we are obliged to observe. 

Jesus mentioned three such things in today's Gospel. 

*2) Justice / Judgement*

Jesus tells us how important it is to observe the aspect  of justice. 

Justice is nothing but, *giving each person what he or she deserves or, in more traditional terms, giving each person his or her due.*

Justice and fairness are closely related terms that are often today used interchangeably. 

*Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.” (Psalm 89:14).*

So we can understand the importance of justice in our life 

Today many are suffering because of injustice is done to them 

*Delayed justice is denied justice* This quote also highlights the importance of justice

*3) Mercy*

Mercy is another important thing, which is highlighted by Jesus, in this context

Mercy is also a weightier thing in the Law and one needs to observe it

God's another name is Mercy. Only a merciful heart and feel for others and can save others. 

When there is no mercy, we cease to exist as human beings. We become heartless people without mercy 

Mercy is nothing but, *compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.*

Am I able to show a compassionate heart towards others 

*4) Fidelity*

Jesus also speaks about the fidelity in ones life 

Fidelity means remaining faithful to a person, cause, or belief

Jesus remained faithful to His Father in all situations. 

Without fidelity life becomes chaos. Fidelity to God and one another  is the foundation of our life 

One who is faithful can succeed in Life 

*5) My life and weightier things*

As we reflect these most important things in our life, how do they influence my life? 

What is the role of these things in my life? 

Do I compromise these things and give importance to other less weightier things in my life? 

The moment we bypass these weightier things in life, we become hypocrites. 

What will Jesus call me? A faithful servant or a hypocrite

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*