For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven

Thus Jesus called upon His followers to be more righteous than the religious officials at that time. Jesus wanted His disciples to do something more than what was required by the Law. Similarly, Jesus encourages us to do something greater. The Lord in today’s passage of the Gospel explains the more profound meaning of God’s commandments. He wants us to go farther than the obligations flowing from our faith. Why? Because the true love which the Lord teaches us to have cannot be limited only to what is mandatory. This call is simple and practical; yet, on the other hand it is also difficult due to its simplicity. We are to attend Mass on Sunday; not only because it is our weekly duty of the faith, but first of all because we wish to encounter our Lord in His word and through the Eucharist. We are to go to Confession; not only to be cleansed from our sins, but also to live more eagerly a holy life. In other words, we are to make our commitment to the Lord and our faith more out of love than due to the obligations.

This Saturday, February 22nd we observe the Feast of the Chair of St. Peter. On that day, we are not celebrating a piece of furniture, but the role and office of Peter within the Church. That office, presently held by Pope Francis, has been around for over 2000 years and is a sign of authority of the Pope and of unity the followers of Jesus. Please, keep the Holy Father and his intentions in our prayers!

St. Peter, the Apostle – pray for us!

God bless,
Fr. Peter