REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR WEDNESDAY OF THE TENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

BEYOND THE LETTERS: EXPLORING THE DYNAMIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LAW, RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND THE SPIRIT

First Reading: 2 Corinthians 3:4-11
Responsorial Psalm: Ps. 98(99):5-9
Gospel Reading: Matthew 5:17-19
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In the tapestry of our faith, certain themes stand out as vibrant threads that weave through Scripture and shape our understanding of God’s redemptive plan. Among these themes are the law, righteousness, and the transforming power of God’s Spirit. Together, they form a beautiful symphony, revealing God’s deep love for His creation and His desire for us to walk in harmony with His will. amazingly, the themes of the law, righteousness, and the transforming power of God’s Spirit are expertly woven together in today’s readings. They serve as a powerful reminder of the intricate relationship between the Old Testament law and its fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. This, to comprehend today’s message, let us take the gospel reading as our point of departure.

Considering the religious and cultural backdrop of first-century Judaism at the time of Jesus, Judaism was a complex religious and social system, deeply rooted in the Mosaic law found in the Torah. The law, given by God to Moses, was regarded as the divine authority guiding Jewish life and practice. It encompassed various commandments, rituals, and moral guidelines that governed every aspect of Jewish society, including worship, morality, and social interactions. In this sociocultural context, Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount, beginning with the beatitudes, which apparently were revolutionary and challenged traditional interpretations of the law by the religious leaders of the time. His words sought to reveal the true spirit and purpose of the law rather than simply adhering to external observance – letters of the law. Addressing his somewhat ‘scandalized audience’ who thought he had come to jettison the law, Jesus declares that He has not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. Jesus emphasizes that not even the smallest detail of the law will pass away until all is accomplished. His intention is to show that the law has enduring significance and should be approached with reverence and obedience. However, he urges his audience to surpass the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, who were known for their scrupulous adherence to the letters of the law. This statement challenges the prevailing religious hierarchy and highlights the importance of true righteousness that springs from an authentic relationship with God. Needless to say, Jesus invites his followers to embrace a deeper understanding of righteousness that goes beyond external observance and seeks a genuine heart transformation. This would have had profound sociological implications, as it challenged the religious norms and power structures of the time. Jesus’ teachings called for a shift in focus from external compliance to a sincere and authentic relationship with God, rooted in love, mercy, and justice.

Similarly, Paul’s way of highlighting the contrast between the “letter” that kills and the “Spirit” that gives life in today’s second reading may also reflect a sociological tension within the early Christian community. Some members may have been clinging to a legalistic interpretation of the Mosaic law, focusing on external adherence rather than inner transformation. Paul’s message emphasizes the transformative power of the Spirit, suggesting a more dynamic and personal relationship with God. Paul admits that the law, while admirable, results in death and condemnation. However, a new covenant that brings righteousness, life, and freedom has been formed through the work of Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Our hearts are changed by the Spirit, who also gives us the ability to live in conformity with God’s desire. In a nexus, today’s responsorial psalm exalts the justice, holiness, and faithfulness of the Lord. It serves as a reminder of the value of reverent, awe-inspiring worship of God. Thus, our worship of God should come from a heart that embraces God’s righteousness and justice, not only from rituals that we perform on the outside.

Dear friends in Christ, let us consider how we personally contemplate God’s righteousness and the law as we reflect on these passages. May we seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to change our hearts and give us the strength to live in conformity with God’s desire. Let us treat the law with respect, understanding that it exists to point us to Christ and to mold us into His likeness. May we constantly strive for a righteousness that goes beyond merely following rules and regulations, and strive for a sincere love for God and people. May we live lives that mirror Christ’s righteousness, bringing glory to God and attracting others to Him.

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Shalom!
© By Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ
Paroquia Nossa Senhora de Loreto, Vila Medeiros, São Paulo.
nozickcjoe@gmail.com / fadacjay@gmail.com
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PS: Have you prayed your Rosary today?