Gospel for February 12 2023 – Matthew 5:17-37
Gospel Reflections for February 12 2023
Say yes when you mean yes…
Do people always believe you when you speak? I hope so. That is the goal Our Lord has for you in today’s Gospel.
I remember years ago I was driving to some meeting when I suddenly saw a red light in my rear-view mirror. Of course, I pulled over and the Officer walked up to my window and said that I had been …speeding! I said, “Officer, I can assure you that I was not speeding at all.”
The Officer then said, “I am so terribly sorry! This was an unnecessary stop and I deeply apologize. Please continue on your way with all my good wishes for your journey!”
Okay, I admit this dialogue did not happen, and I actually did get a ticket, along with a valuable lesson about driving safely.
However, wouldn’t it be wonderful if people always believed everything you said? How great if you had a reputation for always speaking honestly and truthfully so that in any event people would automatically trust your every word …even Officers!
Jesus said some amazing and powerful words about the Old Testament in today’s Gospel that would have shocked his audience. There were no more important words for His audience than the verses in the Old Testament. Yet Jesus clearly declares that only He is the only true interpreter of their meaning.
Jesus repeatedly affirms His authority to speak about these verses, “You have read this verse …but what I tell you about that verse is this…”
Jesus affirms He has the authority to interpret all of scripture. His disciples were not shocked because they knew He always spoke honestly and truthfully.
Think about how often people rely on your word today. I will meet you at 1pm. I will pick up the kids at 3pm. I will complete this project by Friday. Life works to the extent that you keep your word and agreements.
You are coming soon to the beginning of the Season of Lent, a time when you might consider making a Lenten promise, perhaps giving up this or that behavior, or adding a great new event like our new Lenten Speaker Series coming soon. Today’s Gospel encourages you to be a person of your word.
Only make a resolution that you know that you can keep. That way, people will always respect your word!
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Fr Dave,
Good food for thought as we approach
this Lent!
Thank you.
Kathy
You are welcome!
Excellent advise for the very important time that approaches!
Thanks,
Larry Schauf
Yes, Lent is our most important time for sure!
This Gospel leaves a lot to think about. It can trouble some that find it harsh and very to the point with no beating around the bush. The last words strike home in a significant way.
Thanks for bringing it to our attention and I will renew my attempt at living and doing what it requires. Especially the next time I am pulled over.
Yes, the truth will set you free! (John 8:32)
Love your commentary as always!!! You touch us always with our precious Jesus’ LOVE!!!I Wespeak the truth!!!
Loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee, Franca and Dick
Thank you!
Dear Father Dave,
In a way, getting to the truth of issues is like peeling a grape. There is so much “deferred” language in the world, visible in the behavior of our leadership and in what they say and do.
I believe Jesus saw this when He came to earth, which might explain why He provided deeper understanding of the laws.
Oh what a different culture of life we would have if only His teachings had been universally accepted.
“Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me,” is a deeply moving philosophical statement with its roots founded in truth, love, and forgiveness.
Prayers and more prayers for healing mankind.
God bless you,.
Kathleen
Anytime you quote St. Francis is always to encounter deep truth!