Reflection
Christianity is not about a set of spiritless rules but about a set of values. . For a follower of Christ, living is not in the appearance of things but in their substance. We are not expected to imitate those who exercise power over others for their own advantage or condemn others who seem not to live up to their rules. Unfortunately, we see so much hypocrisy. Often those who preach the loudest and condemn others with such zeal are exposed as involved in the same behaviors they so publically deplore. To be like Christ is to walk humbly before God and to offer to others understanding, respect, and loving service. It is to live with integrity. Jesus warns us not to practice hypocrisy in living out our discipleship.
Prayer
Help me to practice what you have preached.
Action
Are there areas in my life where I lack compassion and understanding and find hypocrisy instead? How will I amend this?
Suggested Reading
Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying,
“The scribes and the Pharisees
have taken their seat on the chair of Moses.
Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,
but do not follow their example.
For they preach but they do not practice…..”
Matthew 23:1-12
Hypocrisy: prejudice with a halo.
Ambrose Bierce
Many of us believe that wrongs aren’t wrong if it’s done by nice people like ourselves.
Author Unknown
He does not believe who does not live according to his belief.
Thomas Fuller
Before I can tell my life what I want to do with it, I must listen to my life telling me who I am.
Parker Palmer
It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.
J.K. Rowling
It takes great courage to faithfully follow what we know to be true.
Sara E. Anderson
I want to sing like the birds sing, not worrying about who hears or what they think.
Rumi
Go put your creed into your deed.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
We are all preaching sermons, but some look like they’re in need of a quick benediction.
Frank L. Stanton
The true hypocrite is the one who ceases to perceive his deception, the one who lies with sincerity.
Andre Gide