The Pharisees and their scribes complained to his disciples.

Luke 5:30

Luke 5:27-32

Reflection

When Jesus calls Matthew (Levi) to follow him, Matthew hosts a feast with other tax collectors present. The scribes and Pharisees complain, asking why Jesus eats with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus replies that he came to call sinners to repentance, not the righteous.

The Pharisees and scribes are once again described as complaining. They see an apparent social “no-no” when Jesus eats with various sinners, and proceed to complain to his disciples about this. Instead of attempting to understand why Jesus does what he does, they take a defensive stance.

Do we complain like the scribes and Pharisees? In everyday matters, do we attempt to understand a situation or do we simply go straight to complaining? When it comes to our faith, we should ask for understanding from the Holy Spirit, especially when we are confused or dislike something.

Instead of complaining about a Church teaching or something we dislike at our parish, we can take the time to understand and learn, and in doing so, hopefully grow in love and appreciation of others and Christ. How can you be more grateful today?

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Saint of the Day

St. Peter Damian: 988 – 1072

“The way that God deals with men can only be praised. He lashes them in this life to shield them from the eternal lash in the next. He pins people down now; at a later time He will raise them up.” St. Peter Damian