In today's gospel passage, Jesus is very clear about hypocrisy: he doesn't like it at all. Those who are insincere and full of self and use religion as a vehicle for their own gratification and glorification "will receive a very severe condemnation." In the same passage he also relates that the widow who put into the treasury two small coins worth a few cents – put in not only all she had to live on – but she put her entire trust in God that he would take care of her – she put in her faith – and this faith and trust did not go unrewarded. As promised, the lowly do in fact get exalted; while the rich scribe-like people will be humbled!
In the first reading, St. Paul urges Timothy, to fulfill his ministry of evangelist and teach with great humility and courage and perseverance! He tells him to proclaim the word both when it is convenient and inconvenient. He tells him that the time will come when people will believe their own fabrications and tales, rather than the truth. He, Timothy, must not be caught in that trap – and it is his duty to lead others away from it by offering them the real Truth: the Word of God: Jesus the Christ!
He tells Timothy to give himself completely to the task at hand – as he himself has done and continues to do – being poured out like a libation. He has run the race; he has kept the faith – and soon the crown of righteousness will be given him for his faithfulness and obedience!
May we have that same hope – based on a life lived in humility, courage and perseverance – a life of faith and trust in God who will provide for all our needs if we abandon ourselves entirely to his will and love!
I will sing of your salvation, O Lord!
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