“You impose on people burdens hard to carry,
but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them.”

luke 11:46

Luke 11:42-46

Reflection

Jesus rebukes the Pharisees and scholars for the burdens they impose on others. He accuses them of doing the small things in the law and taking places of honor, but neglecting the more important aspects of the law, instead making sure others abide by it.

The scholars and Pharisees didn’t set good examples for others to follow. They preached how to live, but didn’t do it themselves. We, too, can preach to others, telling them how they should live and act, but not actually do it ourselves. Being a hypocrite doesn’t help anyone, especially yourself.

In terms of faith, we need to live out what we believe. Before we tell others how they should be living out their faith, we need to examine ourselves. Are we following Jesus truly, obeying his teachings and commands, or simply telling others to do so? Nobody is perfect, and our “preaching” is often meant to help others, but we should take time to reflect interiorly to see if we are practicing what we preach.

---

Saint of the Day

St. Teresa of Avila: 1515 – 1582

“I would not want any other prayer than that which makes the virtues grow in me. If it should be accompanied by great temptations, dryness, and trials leaving me with greater humility, I would consider it a good prayer. That prayer is the best prayer that pleases God the most.” St. Teresa