Sir. 15:15-20; 1 Cor. 2:6-10; Mt. 5:17-37
Today’s first reading from Sirach reminds us: “If you choose, you can keep the commandments.” God does not force holiness on us. He invites us to choose life. In the Gospel, Jesus tells us that mere external obedience is not enough. What God desires is a righteousness of the heart, deeper than rules, deeper than appearances—“Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees…”
Jesus begins with a command everyone agrees with: “You shall not murder.” Most of us can say with confidence, “I have never killed anyone.” But Jesus goes further: anger, insults, and contempt are also seeds of destruction.
History tells us that many wars did not begin with weapons, but with words, pride, and wounded egos. A small insult between leaders has often led to rivers of blood. The same happens in families. A marriage breaks not suddenly, but after years of harsh words, silent resentment, and unhealed anger.
In our daily lives, how many relationships are damaged by sarcastic remarks, name-calling, or bitterness? Jesus is telling us: “Do not wait for violence to appear in action—stop it at the level of the heart.” Christian righteousness begins with inner healing, not outward innocence.
Secondly. reconciliation Before Worship: God Waits While We Forgive
Jesus then gives a striking image: someone standing at the altar, ready to offer a gift, and suddenly remembering a broken relationship. Jesus says, “Leave your gift… first be reconciled.”
This is radical. Jesus is saying that relationships matter more to God than rituals. History gives us a moving example: during World War I, on Christmas Eve, soldiers from opposing sides briefly laid down their weapons, sang carols together, and shared food. For a moment, reconciliation took precedence over conflict.
In modern life, many people attend church faithfully while refusing to speak to a neighbor, sibling, or colleague. Jesus challenges us: “Do not use prayer to avoid reconciliation.” True worship flows from a forgiving heart. God would rather wait for our prayer than accept it while hatred remains.
Jesus continues with practical advice: “Come to terms quickly with your accuser.” This is not only legal advice—it is spiritual wisdom.
A story is told of Abraham Lincoln, who was once advised to take revenge on a political enemy. Lincoln replied, “Do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends?” His greatness came not from winning arguments, but from choosing humility over pride.
In everyday life, unresolved conflicts become heavy burdens. A simple apology, a calm conversation, or a willingness to listen can prevent years of pain. Jesus reminds us that delayed reconciliation hardens the heart, while humility opens the door to freedom.
Jesus then addresses adultery, again going deeper: “Everyone who looks with lust has already committed adultery in the heart.” He is not condemning attraction, but objectification—turning a person into a thing.
History shows that societies collapse not only through violence, but through moral decay. Many once-great civilizations fell when human dignity was replaced by indulgence. In our digital age, images flood our screens, normalizing lust and reducing people to objects.
Jesus calls us to purity of vision—to see others as persons, not possessions. This is not repression, but respect. True love begins when desire is guided by dignity.
Next Jesus speaks radical Language: Cutting Off What Leads to Sin. Jesus’ words about plucking out the eye or cutting off the hand are shocking. He is not promoting violence, but decisive action. Sin, if entertained, grows stronger.
A well-known story speaks of a man struggling with addiction who finally changed his life by removing himself completely from harmful environments. Partial measures failed; only radical change brought freedom.
In modern terms, this may mean limiting screen time, avoiding toxic friendships, or changing habits that lead us away from God. Jesus teaches us that eternal life is worth sacrifice. Holiness requires courage.
Jesus speaks firmly about divorce, reminding us that marriage is not merely a contract, but a covenant. In ancient times, women were often abandoned without protection. Jesus’ teaching defends the vulnerable and upholds fidelity.
History honors those who remained faithful through suffering—spouses who cared for one another through illness, poverty, and hardship. Their lives testify that love is not sustained by feelings alone, but by commitment.
In today’s culture of convenience, Jesus calls couples to patience, forgiveness, and perseverance. Faithfulness becomes a powerful witness in a world accustomed to giving up easily.
Finally, Jesus addresses honesty. Instead of elaborate oaths, he says: “Let your ‘Yes’ be yes.” Truthfulness is the foundation of trust.
History remembers leaders who kept their word even at great cost. Their integrity shaped nations. On the other hand, broken promises have destroyed families, institutions, and communities.
In daily life, Christian integrity is shown in simple things—keeping appointments, speaking honestly, fulfilling responsibilities. When words and actions align, faith becomes credible.
Today’s readings invite us to move from external obedience to inner transformation. Sirach tells us we are free to choose. Paul reminds us that God reveals wisdom to humble hearts. Jesus calls us to a righteousness rooted in love, truth, and reconciliation.
This is not an easy path—but it is the path that leads to life. God does not ask for perfection overnight, but for sincere hearts willing to grow. When our faith touches our anger, our relationships, our desires, our commitments, and our words, then our righteousness truly exceeds.
Satish