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Gospel Reading for June 10, 2026 – Matthew 5: 17-19
ENLIGHTEN
Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.”
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A law is justified when it is enacted for the common good. The Laws of God are undoubtedly for the common good because they are founded on LOVE. However, many of the Jews—especially the scribes, Pharisees, chief priests, and elders—had a limited understanding of God’s Law. As a result, they made it burdensome for the people to follow. They also tended to regard themselves as superior to others because they saw themselves as the “interpreters” and experts of the Law.
Jesus incurred their hostility when he sought to ENLIGHTEN them about the true meaning and purpose of God’s Law, helping them understand how it should be fulfilled. Rather than accepting his teaching, many resisted because it challenged their long-held beliefs and authority.
At times, we can be like them. We find security and even a sense of importance in the knowledge we have acquired, especially through formal education. Consequently, when our understanding is questioned or challenged, we may react defensively and become unwilling to listen to other perspectives or explanations.
Lord Jesus, teach us to listen attentively to the stirrings of your Spirit within us. Grant us the humility to recognize that we do not know everything and the openness to receive the truth wherever it may be found!
