INTERIOR PURITY - 8/23/22 (Optional Memorial of Saint Rose of Lima)

Matthew 23:25-26

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but inside they are full of plunder and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee, cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean.”  

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/082322.cfm

Blessed Memorial of Saint Rose of Lima! When listening to the words of Christ, it's important for us to read them in light of God's Mercy. Our Lord knew that the Pharisees were blind because they were focused on their exterior devotions. They were too preoccupied with external actions to the point that they neglected what's most important, interior devotion. As we know, the Pharisees are known for their pride, self-righteousness and other sins. This was the reason why Jesus said that they were cleaning the outside of the cup while the inside was full of impurities. Jesus told them the truth about themselves for them to be able to examine their conscience, reflect on the state of their souls, and repent of their sins. 

We may not perform the same actions of the Pharisees. But, we can also be guilty when we do not prioritize our interior purity. It's good for us to pray, to participate in the Mass, and receive the sacraments. It's pleasing to God's eyes for us to do good works. But, our Lord is reminding us that all of our actions should be motivated by one intention, and that is to love God. Part of loving God is turning away from the sins and temptations which are obstacles in our relationship with Him and running to our Lord who is the center of our lives. Although Jesus spoke to the Pharisees face to face as He was walking on earth, let's remember that God also speaks to us in many ways because of His mercy. 

There are times that our Lord speaks to us through other people. Maybe, not everything that other people tell us is right, especially when they make comments about our behavior. But, Jesus desires for us to reflect on it and examine the truth that is found in their words because there is a message that God wants to tell us about ourselves. He does this for us to be more humble and for us to know what is right and pleasing to God. When we fall to sins, including temptations of lust, we may feel sad about ourselves. However, this is an opportunity that God gives to us for us to know our weaknesses and tendencies, and through this, we can depend on Him and  know how to avoid such temptations. Jesus also speaks to us through His Word. He is showing us His virtues for us to imitate, and when we see the sins of people in the Scriptures, like the Pharisees, it's meant for us to do the opposite of vices or bad works. 

We will be judged on the basis of our love. This is why we should have that interior disposition of loving God in everything we do. External devotions are good, most especially if they are motivated by our interior devotion. St. Rose of Lima performed many sacrifices, penances, fasting and mortifications. But, her motivation was not because of pride. Instead, she was doing all of these things because she loved God, she wanted to be united with Him, and she offered all of these things for the conversion of sinners. We may be struggling once we see the sins that we are attached to. May we go to the sacrament of confession, especially when we realize the grave sins we have not yet confessed. These are invitations and calling from God Himself. Let's not despair because the mercy and graces of God will cleanse our hearts and enlighten our minds darkened by sins. The radiance of God's love will scatter the gloom and sadness in our hearts.

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

 

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Life of St. Lima:

https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/august-30st-rose-of-lima/

Amazing Testimony on Rosary:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=FFyRwJBExMk

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/