A journey from veiled hearts to radiant righteousness

2Cor 3:15-4,1.3-6; Psalm: 84; Mt 5:20-26

Beloved family in Christ, today let us reflect on a transformative journey, a journey from veiled hearts to radiant righteousness. In the book of 2 Corinthians, we find a powerful message from Paul. He speaks of a veil that remains over the hearts of those who do not see the glory of Christ. It is a veil that obscures our vision, preventing us from fully embracing the light of God. Yet, my dear friends, we are called to lift that veil and to encounter the Lord’s glory in all its fullness.

 In today’s first reading, Paul reminds us that whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. This is a profound truth. When we turn towards the Lord, when we truly seek Him, that veil is removed. We can stand in His presence and behold His glory. It is in that moment of encounter that our hearts begin to transform. We are not merely looking at the glory of God; we are being changed into His very likeness. What an incredible promise! We are called to be radiant, reflecting the beauty of Christ in our lives.

Yet, as we reflect on this light, we must also remember the words of Jesus in today’s Gospel. He calls us to a righteousness that surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. This is not just about outward adherence to rules and regulations. No, it is about a deeper transformation that begins in our hearts. In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges us to examine our hearts. Are we harboring anger? Are we holding onto grudges? Are we allowing the veil of bitterness to obscure our vision? He calls us to seek reconciliation. He calls us to the purity of heart.

In verses 23 to 24, He instructs us that if we are offering our gift at the altar and remember that a brother or sister has something against us, we must first go and be reconciled. This is radical grace. It is a call to action that requires us to take a hard look at our relationships and our own hearts. So, how do we embark on this journey from veiled hearts to radiant righteousness? First, we must examine the veil. What is it that prevents us from seeing Christ clearly? Is it doubt? Fear? Disappointment? We must bring these to the Lord in prayer and ask Him to help us remove the veil that clouds our vision.

Next, we must gaze upon Christ. Spend time in His word. Meditate on His teachings. Gazing upon Christ, especially in the Eucharist and Scripture, changes us. We become more like Him, reflecting His light. St. Athanasius profoundly declared: “God became man so that man might become God” (On the Incarnation). Let His love and grace wash over you. As we do this, we will begin to reflect His light in a world that desperately needs it. Then, we must purify our hearts. This is a daily practice. It requires humility and a willingness to confess. We must ask the Lord to cleanse us from anger, resentment, and any other sin that may be lurking in the shadows of our hearts.

Finally, we must seek reconciliation. Take the initiative to reach out to those with whom we have unresolved issues. This is not easy, but it is essential for our spiritual health and the health of our community. As we take these steps, we begin to move from veiled hearts to radiant lives. Let us embrace this journey together, shining the light of Christ for all to see. Amen.

Pope Benedict XVI echoed this, stating: “The veil of the letter that kills is removed only for those who turn with their hearts to the Lord… This turning to the Lord is the work of the Holy Spirit” (General Audience, Nov 14, 2007). 

St. Teresa of Calcutta embodied this: “We are called to be the light of Christ. Let your light shine before all that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” We are vessels of this unveiled light.

Pope Francis constantly emphasizes this: “Peace is not a document you sign. Peace is made with the heart, with the hands, with the feet… It is a daily work.”