The Law

It is not always easy to obey the law of God.

Sometimes it feels like it would be so much easier just to “give in.”

Some people try to make a lifestyle or even a virtue out of disregarding faith-based law.

Even religious people – all along the ideological spectrum – may be very creative in explaining why their violation of a particular precept does not affect their relationship with God.

Today’s readings should be a wake-up call.

Today’s first reading (from Deuteronomy 4) associates observance of God’s law with enjoyment of blessings and a close relationship with the Lord.

Moreover, in today’s Gospel (Matt. 5:17-19), our Lord reaffirms the lasting force of the law.

Both readings give similar warnings

Take care and be earnestly on your guard
not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen,
nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live,
but teach them to your children
and to your children's children....

Whoever breaks
one of the least of these commandments
and teaches others to do so
will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven.
But whoever obeys
and teaches these commandments
will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.

Do we rationalize away the law of God in our lives and in our hearts?

Do we look for and promote excuses?

Or do we try to strengthen ourselves
and strengthen others
in the pursuit of what is right
according to the truth, the law, and the love of God?