Wednesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time
Have you ever called someone or been labeled a hypocrite? In our current political landscape this accusation is being thrown around a great deal. Most reflective people realize we are all hypocrites at times. Consider Jesus’ words “let those without sin cast the first stone.” While this take on the golden rule is for all of us, there are times when we or others cannot help ourselves. Earlier this week at work I was reading the Matthew 25 and thinking about the incredible value of feeding the hungry. Shortly after I was asked to bring food vouchers to a visitor and found myself displeased at what a few moments before I named a virtue. The Lord hit me squarely and clearly between the eyes.
In today’s gospel, Jesus minces no words by using that epithet. “Don’t be like the hypocrites.” Indeed, this admonishment sounds harsh. Yet consider the main purpose behind the statement. He is not talking to a group he is trying to tear down. Jesus is encouraging his followers to do their best. Jesus wants all disciples to think and act in accord with God’s will.
Perhaps dealing with the concept of hypocrite can best be dealt with by defining the word itself. Its meaning is ‘one who pretends to be what they are not, or one who is ‘two faced.’ Jesus’ frustration is with those whose actions suggest purity and intentions are less than pure. Do not say one thing and do another, in other words practice what you preach. While most of us try to live consistently, sometimes we slip; we say one thing and do the other. In our culture we find ourselves quick to judge others who fail to practice what they preach. Often the very criticism we yield can be leveled back against us. One psychologist put it this way; we tend to point out in others what we dislike in ourselves.
The word, hypocrite, comes to our lips easily, yet it speaks to something more deep within each of us. It is like a mirror reminding us to examine ourselves and take the log from our own eyes. Consider how one fasts, give alms and prays. What is the purpose of these activities? Are they to give glory to God or to us?
For Elijah and Elisha, their focus was on serving the Lord, the people of Israel and supporting one another. Like Jesus in today’s Gospel they challenged their community to love the Lord and one another. Like Jesus, their message was not always well received. For Elijah and Elisha, their authority came from fully living that which they believed. It was their faithfulness and dedication that helped them live what they believed and stay true to the Lord.
God of Wisdom, You who knew us before we were born. Teach us that You alone are the Judge of the Universe and that we play the supporting part. Help us to learn to better love and support one another so that we are unified as one body in Christ. Amen!
-Deacon Michael Montgomery