Hypocrisy

Today’s Gospel Text: In the meantime, when so many thousands of the multitude had gathered together that they trod upon one another, he began to say to his disciples first, "Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. 4 "I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear him! 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. .... Luke 12:1-7

Reflection: A very unusual action of Jesus; a crowd around him and yet he turns to his disciples, as if to communicate a very important message:

"Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.”

A leaven is a very important element in making bread that sustains, it is no ordinary dead material but has a special life in it which is hidden in the dough, it begins to work out an increase and softness to the dough.

A leaven is the most beautiful example of what hypocrisy is all about. It is hidden in the most wonderful and select dough that will become bread. It works accordingly to form great  delicious breads.

Likewise it works beneath the most beautiful faces of humans that ultimately is corrupt from within.

The end does not justify the means in human relationships. If the corruption of hypocrisy brings about a beautiful outcome, it is still not acceptable to God.

So too humans may not mind the fruit of corruption, which is a soft wonderful bread. Such breads are even relished by humans and are in great demand.

But what God seeks is the unleavened, pure bread such as the one which his Son Jesus became in order to free humanity from such corruption of hypocrisy and sin.

Likewise he admonishes every disciple of his to resist the corruption of hypocrisy. Even if humans by the majority would like them or even want them, they are to resist the temptation. 

Prayer: Lord it can never be easy to recognize ones hypocrisy, help me by your Holy Spirit and reveal the hidden hypocrisy of my heart, so that I may constantly be renewed.

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