Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Practice what you preach


From today's reading: 'The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach." Matthew 23:2-3

You've heard it said that actions speak louder than words. That's what this is about - living into your teaching. You can claim that you love everyone with the love of Christ, but if you do things that are hurtful to others, then your actions belie your words. Jesus is saying that those who are teaching hold the position of authority and therefore deserve respect. But he is also affirming that IF they are living their lives contrary to their teaching, then we are not to emulate them.

This week in Advent is about love, and the way we demonstrate love is by living into the teaching of Jesus Christ - following his example by loving our neighbors as ourselves.

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