Feast of Perpetua and Felicity
Jesus, today in Matthew’s Gospel, has some sharp words to say about the leaders of his time. He warns his followers to listen to what they say, but not to follow their examples. That got me to thinking—what sort of example do I set? I am not an elected leader, nor am I person of authority, but folks in my community know me, and I do play a sometimes prominent role in the life of my community. My sphere influence may not be vast, but I do need to be aware that I have some influence. That caught me up short! I never really thought that my behavior could draw people to God or repel them. Isaiah, the great prophet, begs that we make “justice our aim” by living a virtuous life, and the psalmist warns that God wants sacrifices of praise and glory, not pomp and show. Today I need to take a good long look at myself in a mirror and ask, “How do others see me? Do I point to God with my actions?” If I can’t answer yes, I’d better start amending my life.