GOD IS THE STANDARD OF GOODNESS - 11/03/22 (Memorial of St. Martin de Porres)

Luke 15:1-2

The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”  

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110322.cfm

Blessed Memorial of St. Martin de Porres! The Pharisees and the scribes had hatred over our Lord Jesus Christ because of His teachings against their sinful lifestyle. And yet, they also disliked the sinners who were coming to our Lord. They were complaining when Jesus was welcoming the tax collectors and sinners. What's the reason behind their complaint? One reason is because of the high view of the Pharisees and the scribes towards themselves. They thought that they were holy because of their knowledge of the Scriptures and their external piety. There's nothing wrong with having deeper knowledge of God's word and expressing our love for Him towards our external devotions. But, these should be the reflection of our interior devotion to God accompanied by humility, not pride. The Pharisees and the scribes considered themselves as the standard of goodness which was the reason why it was easy for them to condemn the people themselves. 

The truth is that we can also act like the Pharisees. It's a blessing for God to give us many graces so that we can persevere in spiritual and moral life. However, there is a temptation for us to be frustrated or angry with other people when we see their imperfections. True holiness is found if we recognize that God is the standard of goodness, not us. When we look at God's mercy, He invites all sinners, including us, to have a deep union and relationship with Him by promising us eternal life. When God sees our weaknesses and sinfulness, He doesn't push us away from Him. He draws us closer to His love, even to the point of the Cross through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for our salvation. Despite the fact that we see how judgmental we may be towards others, let's remember that God still loves us, and He desires to see us to truly repent of our sins. Our repentance brings joy to heaven and to all angels and saints. For the families, especially for the parents, may they be a good model of mercy and goodness for their children by imitating Christ who has been so patient with us amidst our mistakes.  The more we see our sinfulness, the more that we should come to Jesus because He is Goodness and Mercy Himself, and He will grant us rest. 

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. Martin de Porres:

https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/november-3---st-martin-de-porres-religious/

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth

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/