There is Something Greater Than The Temple Here - Daily Reflections July 19,2013

THERE IS SOMETHING GREATER

THAN THE TEMPLE HERE

 

Jesus’ proclamation of the Gospel caused a shift of focus from external realities to internal ones. What do I mean by this? Before Jesus, there was a focus on the Law and, in particular, on the sacrifices made in the Temple for the remission of sins. With Jesus’ Gospel proclamation, the focus shifts to the individual person. He tells us that the sacrificial offering of animals in the Temple is totally useless as far as the forgiveness of sins is concerned, and that the essence of forgiveness rests in the heart’s response to His Word.

       This calls for a major shift in consciousness for the Jews, one that they obviously have great difficulty doing, judging from the Scriptural evidence, especially those whose entire lives and livelihood are centered around Temple sacrifices. Perhaps this makes it a little easier to understand some of the opposition that Jesus faced as He preached the Gospel. The focus on the heart of the person is important for us to recognize, as it can be very easy for us to slip back into all sorts of legalistic rather than heart-focused realities.

       As we continue to follow Jesus, let us keep in mind the need to focus on our heart’s response to God’s love and mercy. Let us not allow the devil to mislead us towards the external practices and understanding of our faith that make it impossible to grow in our relationship with God. There is nothing that the devil enjoys more than seeing us floundering in a sea of laws and legalities when we should be bathing in the light of God’s mercy and love.

       Let us not impose our understanding of the faith on others and allow them to freely make their journey to God in the way that best suits them. Of course, we have to address sin if that is necessary, but when it is not a matter of sin, who are we to decide what way another person should be walking? Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Do you tend to impose your way and beliefs on others? Are you free enough to admit that there are many ways to follow Jesus’ calling?

 

Holy Spirit, help me realize that You tailor fit Your graces for each individual and that my way to God does not necessarily work for anyone else.