In a world full of lies, scams, and empty promises, many people are often led astray by beautiful speech and captivating words that cannot be concretized. It is this pharisaic attitude that Jesus denounces in today’s gospel. On the one hand, He tells the people to listen to what the Scribes and Pharisees teach because they are the legitimate representatives of Moises. On the other hand, he warns his disciples not to do like the Pharisees because “they do not practice what they teach”. We can distinguish in today’s gospel three kinds of messages:

For those who listen: Jesus is telling us to listen to the Word of God from legitimate preachers. Moreover, the Word of God can be effective in the lives of those who hear it despite the weakness of the messenger because it is not their word but God’s. The Word of God should not "fall into our ears" without producing good fruits in our lives (Isaiah 55:8-11). Putting the word of God into practice is not a competition. Jesus is not telling us to check first on our bishops or parish priests whether they are living out the gospel before we too can do it. Whether they follow it or not; we should follow it anyway. Whether they do believe in God or not; we should believe in God anyway.

For those who preach: Jesus is simply telling them to practice what they teach. Practicing what you teach is a sign of faith. I always find a perfect combination of faith, teaching, and action in the rite for the diaconate ordination when the bishop says: “Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.” It means that anyone who doesn’t practice what they teach manifests a clear proof of lack of faith. There is a famous quote from St Francis of Assisi that says, “Preach the Gospel, if necessary, use words.” It implies that preachers can make better sermons with their lives than with their lips. The testimony of life comes first, sermon, homily, and proselytizing… are secondary. The way you live is more eloquent and effective than any form of preaching.

For all: Preachers and listeners alike are to imitate Jesus. He is the only Teacher, the only Master who perfectly blended his words with his actions to fulfill his mission on earth. He preached the Gospel in words and deeds. He preached humility and, he was the humblest person on earth (Phil 2:5). He said that anyone who wants to become greater should be the servant of others and, He did it by washing the feet of his disciples. He said that there is no greater love than offering one’s life for his friends, and he put it into practice by dying on the Cross for our sins.

Therefore, let us examine our hearts and actions. Are we living out our faith in a way that brings glory to God, or are we merely paying lip service to the Gospel of Christ? Let us be a people known for our love, compassion, and integrity. Let our actions speak louder than our words.