Post-feast of the Dormition; Holy Apostle Thaddeus; Holy Martyr Bassa (c. 305)
Read
2 Corinthians 3:4-11; Matthew 23:29-39
Sometimes we hold an image of God as an undemanding, harmless old man who asks nothing of humanity and is ready, like a genie, to grant us our prayer’s desire. Chapter 23 reminds us that God has expectations of each human being and that it is not enough to be a so-called self-proclaimed ’good person.’ We are called to be genuine human beings and strive to grow in humility, purity, justice, mercy, faith and love. How we treat each other matters. We are supposed to treat each other with dignity, respect and love. The Lord also emphasizes that cleanliness and purity of the heart are not optional for the state of your heart will determine which fruit your life will produce: “For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush” (Luke 6:44).
Yes, those who find themselves on the receiving end of today’s chastising words are loved by God. For if God did not love them He would not speak to them the truth that a sinful life consequently leads to corruption, death and eternal separation from Him who is the source of all our joy and blessing. Our Lord speaks the truth in love and calls all to life-giving repentance. This invitation does not occur once, but it comes to us repeatedly through His Word and His servants the, ‘prophets and wise men’ who are continually sent into the world. If we continually reject the Lord’s merciful call of repentance, brought to us by His servants, it will come to an end and we will not ‘escape being sentenced to hell.’ Let us not be afraid to not only heed His call of repentance but also become His ‘prophets and wise men’ by sharing it with others.