+ Our gospel passage today is concerned with not just keeping the law, but keeping the law entirely. Sometimes we think that it is the "big stuff" that God is concerned about, and not the "small stuff" that is part of our everyday lives. Actually, he is concerned about both! Of course he wants us to steer clear of the major offenses that are listed in his own commandments to us; but he is also concerned with the derivative offenses that stem from these commandments. We often hear that "the devil is in the details," not because he really is, but because people think that God is not watching everything – so they tend to play God themselves – thus becoming devilish themselves.
Today Jesus addresses the topics of killing, yes, but also anger! Both according to him are equally reprehensible! And he talks about settling small claims court type of injuries with our opponent while on the way to court: take care of the small stuff of daily interaction with people before it all adds up to a much larger charge and a stiff sentence against us!
The first reading is related in that it encourages the wicked person to turn away from the devilish antics that he so delights in and to turn to God who would much rather have a relationship with a wholesome, happy child of his, whom he can pamper, watch over and provide for, than a stubborn, selfish, spoiled one. But it also tells how sad God is when the virtuous person turns from his good deeds to wicked ones: he shall be lost forever because he chose to turn away from God and his offer of love and a happy home forever.
It seems like such an obvious choice! Who would deliberately sabotage his own life here and hereafter? But, believe it or not, many would, and many do! May that many not include us today!
Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the Lord, and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.
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