Power, Pleasure, and Honor: The Temptations That Distract Us from Christ

Today’s Homily begins with a personal story from the seminary when, out of inexperience, . . .

. . . he failed to show proper respect to a bishop by kissing his ring.

This memory connects to the Gospel message where Jesus criticizes the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes: they teach the truth but fail to live it out, burdening others while seeking power, honor, and recognition.

The Homily challenges us not to discard the truth of the message because of flawed messengers but instead to focus on living faithfully. Hypocrisy is not only a clerical problem but one that all Christians can fall into when their actions contradict their faith.

Jesus warns against the temptations of power, pleasure, and honor, urging believers to be authentic witnesses. The Blessed Mother serves as a model of humility, love, and faithfulness, pointing us to her Son and calling us to align our words with our actions.

Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to

Power, Pleasure, and Honor: The Temptations That Distract Us from Christ
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The Twelve-Year Old Jesus in the Temple: German Artist and Painter: Max Liebermann: 1879
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Gospel Reading Matthew 23: 1-12
First Reading Ruth 2: 1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17