Readings: Deuteronomy 4:1,5-9, Ps. 147:12-13,15-16,19-20, Matthew 5:17-19
“Give heed to the statutes and the ordinances which I teach you, and do them; that you may live, and go in and take possession of the land which the Lord, the God of your fathers, gives you.” (Deuteronomy 4:1)
- In today’s first reading, Moses addressed the people of Israel, saying: “Keep them and do them (God’s commandments); for that will be your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples, who, when they hear all these statutes, will say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’” A society self-destructs when people behave as if they are greater than the Law.
- Even Jesus Christ (God in human flesh) never claimed superiority over the Law. “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfil them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished.” Why must we obey God’s Laws?
1. We Cheat Ourselves by Disobeying God: When the devil was seeking out the fall of Adam and Eve, he attacked the trust and confidence they had placed in God. The devil said: “If you eat this fruit, you will be like God, your eyes will be opened.” In the same way, the devil always tries to make us believe there is something to gain or enjoy from disobeying God. However, the only gain we get from sin is death. (Cf. Romans 6:33).
2. Your Success Depends on Your Obedience: In today’s first reading, Moses said: “Give heed to the statutes and the ordinances… that you may live and take possession of the land.” God means well to us by giving us the commandments. There is a reward for every act of obedience. Unfortunately, today’s Christians are more concerned about their discomfort than their disobedience. Prosperity preachers often quote numerous scriptural passages to make their listeners feel good; however, they rarely share the whole truth. Repent. Live a good life; God knows how to care for his beloved children.
3. By Teaching Others to Obey, We Become Great in Heaven: Jesus says: “Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Remember, you are the earth’s light and the world’s salt. Let your light shine. By so doing, you permit others to step out of their darkness.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, increase our trust in you and help us to obey. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Wednesday of the 3rd week of Lent. Liturgical Colour: Violet. Bible Study: Deuteronomy 4:1,5-9, Ps. 147:12-13,15-16,19-20, Matthew 5:17-19).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu