JUN 1

Luke 18:9-14
Memorise Matthew 15:7-9
“But all their works they do for to be seen of men…”

In the readings over the next few days, we will be considering common pitfalls and problems faced in leading a reformed life. Today, we consider first of all the sin of hypocrisy. All too often, we hear of damning accounts from non-believers criticising Christians (or so-called Christians!) of this sin. Have we been guilty of such conduct in our lives too?

Today’s first reading contains the parable of the Pharisee and the publican. Note who the intended audience of this parable was – Jesus taught this parable unto “certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others” (Luke 18:9). Luke’s description of this group of religious leaders is very telling indeed – they had a selfrighteous, holier-than-thou attitude, and they looked down on others whom they deemed to be less upright than them! The Pharisee exhibited a judgmental spirit towards those they considered to be worse sinners than them, and they took great pride in their outward displays of religiosity. Rather than coming before God in humble contrition and confession of sins as the publican rightly did, the Pharisee demanded God to take note of the fact that he was not as bad as other sinners! What hypocrisy, what self-righteousness!

Today’s second reading reveals another aspect of hypocrisy. Jesus, again condemning the Pharisees, quoted from the prophet Isaiah (29:13). The words that they spoke and the message that they preached seemed to suggest a certain level of godliness and holiness, but the truth of the matter is that “their heart is far from me”. Jesus made it very clear that it is not our words, but only the state of our hearts that is the true test of whether we have a right relationship with God.

Dear teen, have you been living a life of hypocrisy too? Do you look condescendingly on the behavior of others, when in fact you are no better, or perhaps are guilty of even worse conduct? Do you have an outward form of religiosity, perhaps in church or in front of your parents or Christian friends, when in fact your heart remains full of wickedness? Perhaps you are an entirely different person in school; would your classmates be shocked to know that you are a Christian? Consider your ways, and seek God’s help in changing your heart.

Thought: Am I a hypocrite?

Prayer: Lord, help me to be consistent and humble in all my ways.