Ruth 2:1-3,8-11,4:13-17
Matthew 23:1-12
Living in union with God is what gives us the authority to preach. When reading today’s gospel story from Matthew about the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees, Jesus is telling us to practice what we preach. A person is viewed as having authority when they live what they say and do.
It is only when we practice what we preach we can turn the world into a better place.
The Lord tells us also, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you.” It is on this, that we have authority because that is the summary of the law, the prophets, and all the realities that we experience in life.
God rewarded Ruth for her humility and she became the grandmother of David. The Blessed Virgin Mary said Yes to God not only at the Annunciation but throughout her entire life, and now She is the Queen of Heaven and Earth.
In all, let us all make an effort to leave the world just a little bit better at the end of each day.
Fr Joseph Osho