Ordinary Time, 22nd Sunday (B) Is Jesus opposed to rituals and traditions? I see that Jesus has three objections to the behavior of the Scribes and Pharisees.

1. Using external rituals to say, "I'm better than you." We can and should judge right and wrong behavior. But we cannot judge hearts. And we must not use external rituals to compare ourselves to others.
2. The rituals and traditions must not become more important than the law of God.
3. Our hearts are the important part. Our external actions should show what is in our hearts. When there is a disconnect, the heart is the most important part of the equation.

God wants to be with his people. When our actions are evil and our hearts are full of uncleanness, we will not be close to God. God has given us the rules so that we can be close to Him. Moses says, "For what great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the Lord, our God, is to us whenever we call upon him?"

Not a single one of us by "trying harder" can fulfill the call to be like Jesus. This is we must, "Humbly welcome the word that has been planted in you and is able to save your souls." God's own spirit will transform our hearts from the inside. From clean hearts flow clean actions.

Fr. Kamal has arrived in Antigo. He told me a story that reminded me of the power of praying together with fellow Christians. This power flows from our closeness with God.

(1 Sep 2024)

Going Deeper: Do you gather and pray as a family? Do you gather and pray with other Christian families?
Consider participating in the Red, White, and Blue Ecumenical Service on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at Noon at the Langlade County Courthouse.

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