Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
Luke 11:42-46
Danger of missing the heart of the Gospel

In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks strong words against the Pharisees and the lawyers. They were meticulous about external duties—tithing even the smallest herbs, claiming the best seats in the synagogue, receiving public greetings with pride. Yet they neglected what was essential: justice and the love of God. Jesus compared them to unseen graves—appearing respectable on the surface, but spreading corruption without people realising it.

This is a hard truth: it is possible to look religious, to fulfil every outward duty, and yet to miss the heart of the Gospel. True holiness is not about appearances but about love—love of God and love of neighbour.

Jesus also cautions against the pursuit of honour and position. The Pharisees loved the best seats and public recognition. But life is not about titles or status—it is fragile, like an omelette: today on top, tomorrow at the bottom. Our worth is not measured by power or recognition, but by how faithfully we love and serve.

And a further warning: faith must never be imposed. Christianity is a calling, a free response to God’s love. To force or harass others only breeds rejection and distorts the image of God. Our task is not to impose but to propose—to show the freshness of the Gospel through our own witness of joy and compassion.

Like Teresa of Avila, we are called to move beyond external religion to an interior life rooted in God. Yes, practices of faith—Mass, prayer, tithes, devotions—are important. But if they do not transform us into people of mercy, justice, and humility, they remain empty gestures.

The Pharisees sought honor from people; Teresa sought intimacy with God. The Pharisees loved being seen; Teresa loved being hidden in prayer. Jesus calls us to follow her path: to let our faith be authentic, our hearts uncluttered by pride, our lives marked by love.

May St. Teresa help us to remember that real holiness is not in being noticed, but in belonging entirely to Christ.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025