“If your virtue goes no deeper than that of the scribes and Pharisees you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 5: 20 – 26.
Jesus sets a high standard for disciples as he makes our kingdom life dependent on how deep our virtue is. He challenges us to deepen our virtue even beyond that of the scribes and Pharisees. Virtue is two things: a good habitual act and giving the best of oneself. (CCC 1803). The opposite of virtue is vice.
During this Lenten season, as we examine ourselves with the intention of making meaningful change in our lives, take a hard look at our private and public behaviour. Can our behaviour stand up to scrutiny? Is there anything we usually do that make us regret or shameful?
During this Lenten season, examine also our outreach and charity. We do not live for ourselves only. (Romans 14: 7). Whatever we are, have or receive must be shared. Lent is, above all, reaching into our well of generosity and sharing, especially with those who do not have. It is also a time to be helpful and kind as often as we have opportunities.