@evangelinediaries
In a world of shortcuts, customization and misrepresentation, we often succumb to impurity and inferiority. Let’s be cautious and alert and not compromise at any cost.

Gospel – Matthew 5:17-19
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.- The Gospel of the Lord

Reflection - Pure form
How often have we come across people who misinterpret the word of God to satisfy their personal agenda? who quote Scripture out of context and twist it to suit their convenience? who pick and choose whatever is easy to accept and reject the difficult sections? who sugar coat and dilute it to gain popularity and mass appeal? Jesus called out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes in this regard saying “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition” The description of how exactly they had conveniently modified God’s commandment is explained in Mark 7:6-13.

Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you, and you be found a liar. (Proverbs 30:5-6)

In today’s Gospel, Jesus cautions those who attempt to modify, break, twist, dilute or distort God’s commandments in order to gain self-importance or to mislead or divide people. He declares that they would be considered of least importance in His Kingdom. He also categorically clarifies this in another place by strongly stating “If anyone should cause one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble and fall into sin, it would be better for the person to be thrown into the depths of the sea with a large millstone around his/her neck. (Matthew 18:6) Now that’s a pretty stern warning for us to keep in mind.

So what can we do about this? One of the reasons Scripture is misinterpreted is because it can be overwhelming and difficult to comprehend. It may be confusing and at times seemingly conflicting. Not everything is straightforward and the context can often vary. There are also times it challenges us to reexamine our way of life which can be uncomfortable if not looked at with the right perspective.

Therefore, each time we read or listen to Scripture, we must approach it with an open mind. Let’s not blindly or passively accept every interpretation at face value but learn to question, examine and verify it for ourselves before accepting it, just as the Jews in Beroea did when Paul and Silas preached to them (Acts 17:10-12) Make notes and highlight areas that are unclear so that they can be clarified in due course. This kind of hands-on approach helps us to participate in the teaching learning process making it living and active, which is in fact what the word of God is. (See Hebrews 4:12)

But why is it so important to understand Scripture correctly?
1. It serves as a lamp for our feet and a light for our path. (Psalm 119:105)
2. It transforms our life by conforming us to His Way and Truth. (Romans 12:2, John 8:31-32)
3. It keeps us on track and prevents us from being led astray. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
4. It puts our faith into action drawing us closer to Him. (James 2:22)
5. It helps us share the word of God with others as He has instructed us to do. (Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:15)

Jesus declares that He has come not to abolish or modify the law in any way, but to accomplish it, which He did, down to the last letter. As his disciples, let us not get carried away by modern modified shortcut versions, but strive to be faithful stewards and instruments of His pure undiluted Holy word.

Let us pray:
Dear Lord, thank you for the precious gift of your word. We have your assurance that heaven and earth may pass away but your word will stand firm, and those who stand on your word will never be destroyed. Forgive us for the times we have attempted to fit your word into our comfort zone to suit our convenience. Through your Holy Spirit, give us the grace and wisdom to understand your holy word and to abide by it trusting it will lead us to everlasting life. We ask this in the mighty, holy and precious name of Jesus – Amen!
God bless you!

(Reference verses: Psalm 1, Matthew 24:35, 7:24-27, Mark 13:5-6)

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Audio Credit: Ms. Anita Lewis