To us today, these words are reminder that the Gospel is effective because of the Holy Spirit working in us and through us, not never because of merely human endeavors.
Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, admonished and praised to Church of the Thessalonians that their ministry among was a “labor of love”.
The words “labor of love” is a reminder that the call for Discipleship requires that true love which involves consistent, sacrificial effort.
In the Gospel, in sharp contrast to the joy and praise we found in the first reading, Jesus call out, criticizes the Pharisees and Scribes for way of life which was a stumbling block to true believers and in the way of converts to the faith. The life of the Pharisees and the Scribes were quite contrary to “labor of love” in the first reading. Hence, Jesus called these Pharisees and Scribes, hypocrites, blind fools, and blind guides.
Hypocrisy is a real challenge for believers. Today’s Gospel is a warning for all, not to be victims of our own greed, lust, avarice, etc.
Have a wonderful Week
