Eyes, Heart mind and the root of Sin

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Tenth Week :  Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:27-32*

*First Reading : 2 Cor. 4:7-15*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 116:10-11, 15-16, 17-18*

*Eyes, Heart mind and the root of Sin*

The sin of adultery—like many sins—does not begin with the physical act, but with the internal faculties: the eyes, heart, and mind. Scripture offers deep insight into how sin takes root and grows before manifesting outwardly. 

*1) The Eyes: The Gateway to Temptation*

The look is not merely a glance but a gaze with desire. 

The eyes become the entry point through which desire enters the soul. 

In the story of David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11), the fall begins when David saw Bathsheba bathing. 

The look was followed by desire, and then by the sinful act.

When the eyes are misused, they lead the body into darkness. Guarding what we look at is a first step in guarding our holiness.

*2) The Heart: The Seat of Desire*

Jesus identifies the heart as the source of sinful actions:

“For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality…”

— Matthew 15:19

The heart nurtures the desire that the eyes introduce. 

What is entertained in the heart can become intention. When desires are not checked by conscience or grace, they can grow into plans and actions.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

— Proverbs 4:23

The heart must be protected from becoming a place where sinful desires dwell.

*3) The Mind: Rationalizing the Sin*

Once the desire has entered the heart, the mind can begin to justify or strategize the sin. In Romans, Paul describes how people:

…became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.”

— Romans 1:21

The mind can be used to silence guilt and create excuses, turning the internal temptation into planed action.

*4) Sinful Acts: The Final Step*

The actual act of adultery is the final manifestation of a sin that began in the eyes, was entertained in the heart, and justified in the mind.

*5)Sinful Acts: The Final Step*

The actual act of adultery is the final manifestation of a sin that began in the eyes, was entertained in the heart, and justified in the mind.

He calls for a purity of heart, not just avoidance of external sin.

*6) Points to Note*

Adultery breaks not only a marital covenant but also offends God, who is the author of marriage.

The path to sin can be subtle and slow, beginning with seemingly innocent looks or thoughts.

Therefore, discipleship requires vigilance of the senses, purity of heart, and renewal of the mind

*7) How to Overcome the Beginning of Sin*

Job’s Example: “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.” (Job 31:1)

Paul’s Call: “Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)

Psalmist’s Prayer: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*