“Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments
Matthew 5:19
and teaches others to do so
will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven.”
Reflection
Jesus tells his disciples that he has come to fulfill the law, not to abolish it. Not one thing will pass from the law until heaven and earth have passed away. He tells them that whoever breaks the least of the commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever teaches and obeys the commandments will be called greatest.
Sometimes we think that disobeying a ‘small’ or ‘lesser’ commandment or teaching of the Church isn’t a big deal – that Jesus doesn’t really mind. What does it matter if I break the small rules but follow the important, big ones? This mentality leads down a path of disobedience and draws us further away from Christ.
We should take care to follow every small command, because it teaches discipline and faithfulness to God. Doing the small things makes a large difference in all aspects of life. Growth in virtue comes from following the Lord’s commands, and we help others grow, too, by teaching them to follow his commands. Showing others that no command is too small to be ignored displays the seriousness of our faith and desire to follow Jesus and his perfect way.
Reflect on how you can better obey the Lord in one particular area of your life. How can you resist temptation to sin and instead faithfully follow Jesus and his will for your life?
Saint of the Day
St. Barnabas
“When [Barnabas] arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart, for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith.”
Acts of the Apostles 11:23-24
The Healing Word 