"The scribes and the Pharisees
have taken their seat on the chair of Moses.
Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,
but do not follow their example.
In today's Gospel, we hear the Lord teaching us how to deal with religious authorities. Although he appeared to be speaking to his people in the first decades of Anno Domini, the Evangelists were more concerned about the leaders of the nascent Christian community. Their Gospels and other New Testament writings clearly attest to a lot of misbehavior. There were wolves in sheep's clothing, and hirelings who would abandon the flock at a moment's notice.
Jesus did not deny the legitimate authority of religious leaders; He insisted we should "do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you." Bishops and priests often refer to the Magisterium -- that is, the teaching authority of the Church -- as they preach, teach, and write pastoral letters. That authority has learned much through its study of the scriptures and theology. It respects the human wisdom of the arts and sciences, and especially the philosophical traditions of Europe. It recognizes the dignity and worth of human religions which formed without the intervention of divine revelation.
With that Magisterial background, they attempt to speak reasonably to the leaders of this world about contemporary issues, and are often recognized. Our learning is more rational and carries more dignity than much of the world's ethos.
But the Lord and the Evangelists also knew the personal failings of every Christian, including those found among the leaders of the Church. The Magisterium recognizes sin, "...do not follow their example."
The entire Church, and not just that of the United States, has learned a hard lesson from the ongoing pedophilia scandal among the clergy and lay leaders of the Church. We have recognized, as we did not, the danger of power in unworthy hands. Too often children were punished for speaking the truth, and lay folks were threatened with excommunication if they turned to civil authorities, even as pastors and bishops refused to discipline their own. Crimes were brushed under the rug until the swelling appeared like an elephant in the room.
The scandal was, and remains, entirely appropriate. The Church and the world has every right to expect more of our clergy. Greater fidelity to God's Word would not have been so surprised, nor would it have left the crimes to go on so long.
Lent invites everyone to repent, confess our sins to a priest, and turn back to the Lord. There are no exceptions and no excuses for failure.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.