In the First Reading, the people of Israel fell into idolatry. Their problem was not simply bowing before statues; it was putting something ahead of God. They trusted political alliances, foreign customs, and false gods more than the Lord who had rescued them. God repeatedly sent prophets to call them back, but they refused to listen. Their exile was the tragic consequence of hearts that had drifted away from God.
In the Gospel, Jesus addresses another danger: judging others while ignoring our own sins. He uses the vivid image of noticing a splinter in someone else’s eye while failing to see the wooden beam in our own. Before correcting others, we must first allow God to examine and purify our own hearts.
The memorial of Saint John Fisher and Saint Thomas More which we celebrate today reinforces this message. Both men refused to place earthly power, political pressure, or personal advantage above God. Their witness reminds us that fidelity to God must always come before every other loyalty.
What do I takeaway from the readings?
Israel lost sight of God by giving their hearts to idols, while Jesus warns us not to become blind to our own sins through pride.
Have a wonderful week
