Do Not be Afraid for Anything!

Today’s study will conclude Chapter 6 of Matthew’s Gospel and we are two-thirds of the way through the Sermon on the Mount.  I can’t speak for any of you, but I am having a great Lent so far.

What plans have you made for Holy Week?  On here, I plan on finishing Chapter 7 in Matthew by next Wednesday.  Then, I will begin a two day do-it-yourself Ignatius retreat with the book “Consoling the Heart of Jesus.”

That means I will spend the Triduum off-line.  When we return on Easter Monday, we will begin a bible study using “The Year of Faith: A Bible Study Guide for Catholics” by Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S.J.  Hope you all join me for that journey.  It will be a great way to celebrate the Easter Season.

Concerning Treasures

Matthew 6: 19-21

“For where you treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

The Sound Eye

Matthew 6: 22-23

6:22  the eye is the lamp:  this is an ancient metaphor.  Jesus uses this metaphor to advocate generosity.  According to the passage, if we have sound eyes, we are filled with light and generous with our belongings.  Those who are evil are filled with darkness and are stingy.

Serving Two Masters

Matthew 6: 24

6:24  mammon:  this is an Aramaic word meaning “wealth” or “property.”  Jesus is warning that anything that comes between us and God is idolatry.  (CCC 2113)

CCC 2113  “. . . Idolatry rejects the unique Lordship of God; it is therefore incompatible with communion with God.”

Do Not Be Anxious

Matthew 6: 25-34

6: 28-30  Jesus teaches using the logic of a rabbi.  He tells us that God supplies our physical needs to signify His great concern for our spiritual needs.  He desires to clothe us with glory and immortality in heaven.  (cf. 1 Cor 15: 15-55; Rev. 19: 7-8)

6:33  seek first His kingdom:  The pursuit of holiness must be a priority for us.  We can’t be lazy in practical matters, but we must trust our Father’s care.  (CCC 2608)

Jesus is My Lifeguard!

Next time:  Chapter 7: 1-29

Study Question:  List some ideas that you have thought about during reading the Sermon on the Mount.

Meditation:  “Judge not, that you be not judged.”