Faith Expressed In Word and Deed.
Dear Parishioners,
Words and deeds are the highlights of today’s scripture readings. Both Sirach and Jesus place great emphasis on words and corresponding actions. It comes in the form of parable, observation and prediction. In the gospel, Jesus weaves an intricate guideline as an extension of his sermon on the plain (beatitudes), which spells clearly the Christian ethics and new way of life. It seems odd at first hearing but when reflected upon, the meaning and its fruitfulness become life-giving.
The Lord Jesus began his discussion with a series of recommendations, starting with the blind leading the blind imagery. They can only end in a ditch. He spoke of the relationship between a student and his teacher. His comparison between the speck and the plank, and the need for judging oneself before taking others to task. He insists that each person must apply to himself the teachings that he would like to share with others. If he does that, he will be like a good tree bearing good fruits. The lesson here is that one can only bear good fruit to the extent that his heart is good and upright.
Previously, Jesus preached the beatitude: love for one’s enemies, and, finally, the need for mercy and benevolence. The crux of the matter is that the Lord’s teachings and his invitation to discipleship are not cheap. These words of Jesus cannot be ignored; his message is so broad in scope and so rich in truth. They are appealing yet demanding, and certainly most necessary. It calls for an action. Those who first heard this message and reacted positively became his disciples and with them the foundation of the church began. They who accepted it became witnesses to this Good News.
How do we bear witness in today’s world? How do we put these truths to the service of our neighbor? Sirach, in the First Reading, points to the significance of the power of words and speech as the real test of a person’s worth. In the four proverbs of Sirach, speech is a sure key to character. It acts like the sieve in exposing a person’s defect, weakness or virtue.
We have come to learn from Jesus that words and actions are reflections of one’s inner dispositions. Speech points to the type of formation one received. These are things we must pay attention to in accordance with the four parables the gospel presents to us today. We must have enlightened conscience; if not, we become an obstacle to others. We must avoid a rash and judgmental attitude, which can lead to pride to an extent that we overlook our own faults.
We must avoid harsh expressions and allow charity to govern our thoughts and actions.
To be a credible witness, “the person who wants to bear witness to the good news and to let others benefit from it must know himself. He must know not only what this good news is but also how one probes ever more deeply into its meaning.” Formation of character and values are so essential. It starts with home, family, school, institution and society in general. May God give us the wisdom to become a tree bearing good fruit that produces deeds, such as forgiveness and charity. Agere sequitur esse. Action flows from what we are.
Sincerely Yours In the Lord,
Fr. Vitalis Anyanike, Pastor
