Sincerity and authenticity in our relationship with God

Gal 5:18-25; Psalm: 1; Lk 11:42-46

In today’s Gospel, Jesus condemns the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and lack of true piety. He criticizes them for tithing even the smallest herbs but neglecting justice and the love of God. The Pharisees were more concerned with outward appearances and looking righteous rather than truly living out the teachings of God. Jesus urges them to focus on the more important matters of the law such as justice and the love of God. This passage serves as a reminder for us to examine our own actions and motives, ensuring that we are living in accordance with God’s Will and not just going through religious motions.

Today we commemorate the memorial of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque who was a French nun who lived in the 17th century and became known for her devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She experienced visions of Jesus in which he revealed his love for humanity and his desire for devotion to his Sacred Heart. St. Margaret Mary’s life and message remind us of the importance of focusing on a personal relationship with Jesus and living out his teachings with love and devotion. She exemplified a deep faith and dedication to Jesus, even in the face of opposition and skepticism from others.

Both today’s Gospel and St. Margaret Mary Alacoque emphasize the importance of authenticity and sincerity in our relationship with God. It is not enough to simply go through the motions of religious practices or adhere to certain rules and regulations. True piety and devotion come from the heart, from a genuine love for God and a desire to live in accordance with His Will. Like St. Margaret Mary, we are called to cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus and to show love and compassion to others as a reflection of our faith.

Reflecting on today’s Gospel and the life of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque challenges us to examine our own spiritual practices and attitudes. Are we truly living out our faith in a way that honors God and reflects his love for others? Are we focused on the outward appearances of righteousness, or are we striving to live with sincerity and love for God and our neighbors? Let us take inspiration from St. Margaret Mary’s example of devotion and seek to deepen our relationship with Jesus, living out our faith in a way that truly honors him and brings light and love to the world.

The teachings of Jesus in today’s Gospel and the life of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque remind us of the importance of sincerity and authenticity in our relationship with God. Let us strive to live out our faith with love and devotion, focusing on the more important matters of justice, mercy, and compassion. May we be inspired by St. Margaret Mary’s example of devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and seek to cultivate a deep and meaningful relationship with God in our own lives.