From the beginning of his public life, Jesus came into conflict with the representatives of the religious institution, the scribes, and the Pharisees. This Sunday’s gospel passage presents Jesus’ attack against the scribes.

Jesus denounced their behavior: “They like to walk around in long robes” to get everyone’s attention. Jesus didn’t like that. A person united with God’s thoughts and feelings should never worry about attracting attention to be admired. A prophet wants to be heard, not admired.

These spiritual and religious leaders wore special outfits to distinguish themselves from others and show their superiority. It was a way of begging for attention, of seeking self-importance. The scribes of Jesus’ time no longer exist, but do we notice self-righteous behavior today in our ecclesial communities? How often do we encounter people who try to enhance their personal glory by adding honorific titles to their names and demanding that they bow and kiss their hands? If there is a rank in the Church, the highest rank should be given to the disabled, the poor, the needy, and the sinners because they were the ones who welcomed the love of Jesus.

Anything that created separations and divisions between people made Jesus angry. The only time Jesus speaks of condemnation is against people who created divisions in the community. Today’s passage is a warning for everyone, especially those who serve in the Church and cause community divisions because of rites, rituals, and traditions.

Perhaps this week is a good time to reflect on whether discrimination and divisions remain problematic in our Church. It would be good for us to ask ourselves how to promote equality and fraternity in our parish community.

Fr. Lalo Jara, OFM Pastor,
Mission San Luis Rey Parish

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