Pride

My dear friends in Christ,

Jesus speaks sternly and directly to the chief priests and elders. They are spoken to awaken the consciences of these religious leaders. They were filled with pride and self righteousness. They held to their own opinions and their opinions were wrong. Their pride kept them from discovering the simple truths that tax collectors and prostitutes were discovering. For that reason, Jesus makes it clear that tax collectors and prostitutes were on the path to holiness whereas these religious leaders were not. Where do you fit? Do you allow pride to get in the way? Are you overly judgmental? The “religious” and “pious” elders struggled with this. Jesus tells them to seek humility with the openness of the tax collectors and prostitutes. By embracing this level of humility, God will open the doors of His mercy to you.

“The World Day for Migrants and Refugees” which we celebrate today is an opportunity to reflect on the global contributions of immigrants and refugees, and highlight the work of The Church to welcome, protect and integrate them. We are reminded that regardless of our background, we are all built in the image of God and should be treated as such. In his message on The World Day for Migrants and Refugees, Pope Francis has highlighted that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the forced displacement of people and the difficulties they encounter when seeking protection. This day is an opportunity to unite the world in addressing forced displacement and pray for the well-being of our immigrant and refugee brothers and sisters as we continue to bring solidarity, compassion and love throughout our human encounters.

May God bless you all,

Father John