it is the inside that make us unclean

Gospel

Matthew 23:23-26

Clean the inside of the cup first, so that the outside may become clean

Jesus said: ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who pay your tithe of mint and dill and cumin and have neglected the weightier matters of the Law – justice, mercy, good faith! These you should have practised, without neglecting the others. You blind guides! Straining out gnats and swallowing camels!

‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who clean the outside of cup and dish and leave the inside full of extortion and intemperance. Blind Pharisee! Clean the inside of cup and dish first so that the outside may become clean as well.’

🌿 Gospel Reflection – Matthew 23:23-26

In today’s Gospel, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their hypocrisy. They are meticulous in small, visible religious practices—like paying tithes on herbs—while neglecting the deeper, weightier matters of the Law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Jesus reminds us that true holiness begins from within. Outward actions are meaningless if the heart is filled with pride, selfishness, or corruption. We are called to cleanse our hearts first—to seek integrity and compassion—so that our external lives may reflect God’s love authentically.

🪞 Reflection Question:

Am I more focused on appearing good than actually doing good from the heart?

🙏 Short Prayer:

Lord, purify my heart and help me to live with sincerity, mercy, and justice. May my inner life reflect Your love and truth. Amen.

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