6/14/2024 (Friday) Today’s gospel reading: Matthew 5:27-32
27 Jesus said to his disciples: “You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit adultery.
28 But I say to you, everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna.
30 And if your right-hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into Gehenna.
31 “It was also said, Whoever divorces his wife must give her a bill of divorce.
32 But I say to you, whoever divorces his wife (unless the marriage is unlawful) causes her to commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
6/14/2024 (Friday) Today’s gospel reflection / homily / sermon: Matthew 5:27-32
In this gospel reading, Jesus addresses the profound importance of purity in heart and relationships, underscoring the significance of commitment and fidelity. This passage challenges us to elevate our understanding of righteousness beyond mere actions to the very intentions and thoughts that shape our lives.
“‘You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:27-28, NIV). Here, Jesus calls us to recognize that sin begins in the heart. It’s not enough to refrain from physical acts of infidelity; we must also guard our minds and hearts against lustful thoughts and desires. This teaches us to cultivate inner purity and self-discipline, acknowledging that our inner lives are just as important as our outward actions.
Jesus goes further, using hyperbolic language to illustrate the seriousness of sin: “If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell” (Matthew 5:29, NIV). While not advocating literal self-mutilation, Jesus emphasizes the necessity of drastic measures to avoid sin. This can inspire us to examine our lives and remove any influences or habits that lead us astray, even if it requires significant sacrifice.
Moreover, the passage on divorce reminds us of the sacredness of the marital covenant. Jesus points out that marriage is more than a legal contract; it is a profound spiritual union. Upholding the sanctity of marriage means fostering love, respect, and unwavering commitment to one’s spouse.
Jesus challenges us to pursue a deeper, more holistic righteousness. It calls us to integrity, where our thoughts, words, and actions align with God’s will. By striving for purity in heart and honoring our relationships, we reflect God’s love and faithfulness, becoming beacons of His light in the world.
Go here to read further gospel reflection.
