Lenten Reflection Series 2023- March 3rd

"​Jesus said to his disciples: “I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven." This must have spun some heads when Jesus uttered these words. To every Jew, the Pharisees were as righteous as they come, the example setters for all young Jewish boys; and now Jesus says you must do better!
Little did they know at the time, of the corrupt nature of the Pharisees. Jesus was speaking truth that people were not prepared to hear. To expand upon the law of righteousness and go even deeper. The righteous are forgivers, no grudge or debt held over any brother or sister. That so much as anger in the eyes of God directed at a brother or sister is killing.
We sometimes don't think about verbal or emotional attacks are on the same level as taking a human life. Death of the mind, spirit, or will is no different than a physical death. Anyone convicted of doing so is not righteous before God and thus not invited into the Kingdom of Heaven.
​ So take some time this evening to reflect upon the actions of today. If God were to tap you on the shoulder tonight, would you be counted amongst the righteousness?
God Bless,
Jonathan Molik
Pastoral Associate