CLEAR OUT THE OLD YEAST

 

CLEAR OUT THE OLD YEAST

What does Paul mean when he tells the Corinthian community to “clear out the old yeast” from their midst? The context of the City of Corinth is an important factor in understanding what Paul is saying—that it is a cosmopolitan community, full of people from different ethnic, religious, and philosophical backgrounds. These are the people who moved to the Christian community of Corinth after their conversion. Obviously, they have brought some of their old practices with them that are inconsistent with Christian moral teachings. It is this that Paul is addressing when he says that those who are unwilling to change their behavior and align themselves with the teachings of the faith have to be excluded from the community.

This is essential if the Christian Church is going to make a moral stance on such matters. There can be no compromise. We need to heed Paul’s instruction seriously when addressing the sins, perhaps even patterns of sin, in our lives. It is possible for any one of us to develop practices that are contrary to the Church’s teaching and, thus, we need to be vigilant in rooting them out. If we tolerate improper practices and attitudes, this will be to the detriment of our witness as a community of faith.

We must, therefore, seek to grow in holiness to ensure that the witness of our lives will speak truly of the Gospel values and not compromise them in any way, shape, or form. Yes, we need to be compassionate and understanding of people’s struggles with sin. However, we should never tolerate the attitude that allows us to “give up the fight against sin” or the one that allows us to simply turn a blind eye to sin. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

----------- REFLECTION QUESTIONS -----------

How serious are you in ridding your life of all sin? Do you take this responsibility seriously enough?

Jesus, You are holy and without sin. May I always follow Your example and love the sinner but reject the sin. Help me to grow in virtue today. Amen.

Today, I pray for: __________________________