Tuesday, March 10
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The Scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice.”
—Matthew 23: 1-3
Along the path, we are asked to question simple answers and to explore new possibilities so that God’s vision might be manifest anew. It is in that place of self discovery among others, a community gathered together in discernment, that integrity and authenticity have the greatest chance for new birth.
Yet, our faith communities are made of very fallible people, and throughout the ages, the church has been guilty time and again of preaching one thing and living another. A cursory review of church history presents an indictment that would make it through any grand jury. Too often the church has used its power and influence to expand a kingdom on earth instead of the kingdom of God.
All of us bear the responsibility for bringing words and actions into alignment. If we can enter into the community of faith with prayers for authenticity in all that we do, then the good news has a chance. If we can bring our words and actions into a symbiotic relationship, a beautiful dance of God’s grace in the world, then we will be a community of faithful who truly witness to God’s purpose.
May all we preach the Gospel, and when necessary, may we use words. But most of the time, may we live the good news with integrity and with authenticity.
God of truth, you invite me to a life of integrity and authenticity. Grant me honesty with you that I might be the person you created me to be. Amen.
