Scripture for today's readings can be found at http://www.usccb.org.nab/
"You can't judge a book by its cover" is an old adage that, like many old adages, contains a great deal of truth. Most of us can probably think of a time when we've been surprised by someone's actions that were quite contrary - for better or for worse - to our expectations. Indeed, things might not have been what they appeared to be; our judgement was definitely inaccurate!
God's Word today reminds us of this truth and also challenges us to have the "cover" of our own "life's book" match the content of that book. I thought of this as I entitled this week's reflection, for sometimes we all can be a bit like cotton-candy: all "fluff" and no "stuff".
In the Letter of James the simple phrase "Be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deluding yourselves"(22) comes right to the point! But the amazing , almost jaw- dropping words of accusation in Mark that are addressed to the Pharisees leave no room for doubt that appearances count for nothing with Jesus. What is within makes the difference in how one lives!
So once again God's Word calls us to align our inner spirit with God's Spirit and then to put that Spirit into action in our everyday lives.
To Think About:
Am I generally judgmental or accepting of people?
Do I make judgments based on exterior elements like appearances, housing, clothing, job titles?
Am I or my family overly concerned about outward appearances?
Do I "put my money where my mouth is", having my actions match my words?
To Do:
Notice your prejudices and the reasons that you might prejudge someone. Awareness is a good first step toward change.
Talk to someone you might usually ignore; even a "Good Morning" or a "Thanks" can be good.
Encourage your child to see beyond stereotypes, even as you notice your own language about people.
Look for ways to contribute to a greater cause where you may meet different people.
To Pray: "We will walk with each other.. we will work with each other...: ( "They'll Know We Are Christians" )
Next week: 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time: Isaiah 35: 4 - 7a; James 2: 1-5; Mark 7: 31-37
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