By Akhsi Wary csc –
Readings: Ex 11:10-12:14; Mt 12: 1-8
For the Pharisees, observing the traditions was one of the important values. We can say that this observance was more important than being merciful or sensitive to the needy people around them. They followed the command “keep the Sabbath holy”. But today Jesus’ teachings are something new. He asks us to do those things which are loving and sensible for oneself and others.
Laws and rules are important, they are there to guide and help us to live a moral life, but we should not make them our gods. Today Jesus invites us to cultivate the law of love, compassion, and mercy which are above all other laws. He invites us to become the people of love and mercy. For Jesus, practicing these values are far more important than the sacrifices and ritual practices in a temple.
The Pharisees were so much preoccupied with the rules and laws that they failed to understand the love of God given to all humanity. Through this gospel reading, Jesus tells us that the word of God is not a set of instructions, but a way to form our hearts in the light of his mercy and compassion which should reflect in our daily living.