Daily Readings - Tue Aug 26 2025

¹You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure.²We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition.³For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you.⁴On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.⁵You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed--God is our witness.⁶We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else.⁷As apostles of Christ we could have been a burden to you, but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children.⁸We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.

Matthew

Chapter 23

²³"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices--mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law--justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.²⁴You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.²⁵"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence.²⁶Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.

Sermon

The readings today invite us to reflect on the authenticity of our faith and the integrity of our actions. In the first reading from 1 Thessalonians, St. Paul reminds the early Christians of the sincerity and selflessness with which he and his companions shared the Gospel. He emphasizes that their mission was not driven by personal gain or human approval but by a deep love for God and for the people they served. This passage highlights the importance of living out our faith with humility and generosity, putting the needs of others before our own. In the Gospel, Jesus critiques the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy. He points out that while they meticulously observed certain religious practices, such as tithing, they neglected the more essential aspects of the law: justice, mercy, and faith. Jesus’ words challenge us to examine our own lives. Are we more focused on outward appearances or on cultivating inner purity and compassion? He warns against being “blind guides” who strain out a gnat but swallow a camel, reminding us that true faith must transform both our hearts and our actions. These readings call us to live with integrity, ensuring that our words and actions align with the values of the Gospel. Like St. Paul, we are called to share our faith with sincerity and love, not seeking glory or gain. And like Jesus’ critique of the Pharisees, we are reminded that true righteousness begins within. Let us ask ourselves: Are we living in a way that reflects the love and mercy of God? Are we more concerned with what others see or with what God sees in our hearts? May we strive to be people of authenticity and compassion, living out our faith in a way that honors God and serves others.