by Rev. Herbert Nichols

Before proclaiming the words of the gospel, the priest or deacon invites us to cross ourselves on the lips and chest to recall that the word of God should always be on our minds and lips and in our hearts. This simple act of faith is a powerful reminder that being holy--becoming more God like is not something that happens apart from daily living--but rather is the grace of God within me.

This grace is there to be called upon at any time when we are driving, at a check out stand or gas pump, or in a difficult situation with our kids. Too often, however, we choose or are not accustomed to calling upon the word; but rather call out other words that are of no help at all.

Today's first reading from Leviticus speaks of holiness formation as being associated with justice towards one's neighbor. This reading from the Torah--the ancient law--is linked by Matthew's gospel with Jesus the presenter of the New Law--the law of beatitudes--attitudes of being holy-- the new law which teaches that our won judgment hinges on how we have judged others.

For some that might be rather intimidating, but Jesus’ purpose in speaking of judgment is not to frighten us, but to show us how to prepare for an event of great joy by learning to live compassionately, without resentment or intimidation or fear.

I find it rather ironic that I grew up in the 50/60s at a time when many people left the church because of fire and brimstone sermons of being condemned to hell. I remember one sermon where Father Lyons pointed to the confessional saying: there's only one fire escape--use it.

And there certainly is some truth to that, whether we want to hear it or not. Jesus, Himself, on occasion preaches with that type of language; but much more often we hear his invitation to mercy, kindness, peace and unity.