Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle
“You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment.” Matthew 5:21-22
Today we continue our reading of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. In today’s Gospel, Jesus reveals the authority of his teaching to us. He begins by saying “You have heard that it was said…,” referring to the Torah. Jesus follows this by saying, “But I say to you…,” which places his teaching authority even above the sacred Torah. As we saw yesterday, Jesus is not abolishing the Law. Instead, he is fulfilling it by revealing the deeper intention behind God’s commandments. Jesus shows us that righteousness isn’t just about avoiding outward sins. Righteousness also requires transforming the heart.
Reflection by Br. Augustine Kroeze, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections