Religiosity
The religious leaders in the first century were Pharisees and scribes. The scribes were men trained in the law of the prophets and the Torah. The Pharisees were men who were intent on following the laws of Moses that they developed additional laws to make sure they would not break Moses’ laws.
We do that sometimes. To make sure we get to work on time we set up two alarm clocks, rather than go to bed a little earlier the night before.
The Pharisees and the scribes became very prominent in their society. And to make sure people knew who they were they would wear fancy vestments and demand seats of honor at large gatherings. The major difference between Jesus and these religious leaders was that the religious leaders would tell people what they must do and not offer to help them. Jesus knew what people should be doing and he would teach them how to follow the law. Jesus offered to walk with you whereas the religious leaders wanted you to carry them.
We need to look at our religious leaders today. Do you see leaders making demands of people or helping them? We need to look at ourselves, too. When we worship, do others see what we are doing reflecting a heart that is pious and devout? Or are we just going through the motions, hoping to be noticed? Do we focus on the needs of others, or are we self-centered, focused on our own gain?
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen