Living from the Heart of the Gospel

09-01-2024Weekly ReflectionFr. Augustine Acheme, VC

This Sunday’s readings challenge us to reflect on the authenticity of our faith and the importance of living out God’s Commandments from the heart. Through the words of Moses, James, and Jesus, we are called to move beyond a mere external observance and embrace a faith that transforms us from within.

In the first reading, Moses instructs the Israelites to carefully observe the statutes and decrees of the Lord, emphasizing that these laws are a testament to their wisdom and intelligence as a people. “Observe them carefully,” he says, “for thus will you give evidence of your wisdom and intelligence to the nations” (Dt 4:6). Moses highlights the close relationship between God and His people, a relationship that is evident in the just and righteous laws given to them. This passage invites us to consider how our adherence to God’s Commandments reflects our identity as His people and our witness to the world.

The responsorial psalm further explores the theme of righteous living, declaring, “The one who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord” (Ps 15:1). The psalmist outlines qualities such as blamelessness, truthfulness, and integrity, which characterize those who dwell in God’s presence. These qualities remind us that living justly is not merely about following rules but about embodying the values that draw us closer to God.

In the second reading, James calls believers to be “doers of the word and not hearers only, deluding yourselves” (Jas 1:22). He emphasizes that true religion is not about external rituals but about caring for those in need and keeping oneself “unstained by the world” (Jas 1:27). James challenges us to live out our faith in practical ways, demonstrating love and compassion to others, especially the vulnerable.

The Gospel presents a confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees over the issue of ritual purity. The Pharisees criticize Jesus’ disciples for eating with unwashed hands, a viola on of traditional practices. Jesus responds by quo ng Isaiah: “These  people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Mk 7:6). He then teaches that it is not what goes into a person that defi les them, but what comes out from their heart - evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, and other sins. Jesus’ words challenge us to examine the condition of our hearts and the sincerity of our worship.

These readings remind us that true faith is not about outward appearances or rigid adherence to traditions but about cultivating a heart that is aligned with God’s will. Our actions should flow from a transformed heart, one that is rooted in love, justice, and humility.

This week, let us reflect on how we live out our faith. Are we merely going through the motions, or are we allowing God’s word to shape our hearts and actions? Let us strive to be doers of the word, embodying the values of the Gospel in our daily lives. By doing so, we bear witness to the world that our faith is not just a set of rules, but a living relationship with God that transforms us from the inside out. Amen.

Fr. Augustine Acheme, VC