Our readings this week encourage us to pay attention to the ways in which the word of God truly influences how we live our lives.  Although we all too often fail to live up to the example set for us, we are none the less assured of an abundance of gifts, because of God’s infinite love for each and everyone.

In the First Reading, Moses explains to the people that it is by obeying the laws given to them in the commandments that they will have life in the land, as promised to them by the Lord.

The importance of actively living our faith is further emphasised in the Second Reading. Here the author exhorts Jewish Christians not just to listen to the word, but to do what the word tells them, by caring for those in need, and living good and honest lives.

In the Gospel, Jesus describes the lip-service of the Pharisees, who, as foretold in the words of Isaiah, offer ‘worthless worship’. Their adherence to human traditions and values takes their hearts far from God.

This week, we may want to spend some time reflecting, with the Lord’s help, how closely our own lives reflect the ideals described in the Psalm, which speaks of the just dwelling in the presence of the Lord. We can then ask with confidence that the Lord will show us the path that will draw us ever closer to his presence.