a proof to the people

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

2 Kings 25:1-12 Psalm 137:1-6 Matthew 8:1-4

Matthew 8:4  And Jesus said to him, "See that you say nothing to any one; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to the people."

As we see here it wasn't the ritual act that saved the man from his leprosy.  It was the will of Jesus Christ in response to the man's prayer.  But, Jesus told him to go offer the sacrifice anyway for the benefit of the people.  We too often think of the Christian faith as a thing about us as individuals.  Yes salvation is partly individual, but it is also communal.  We are part of a body.  Christ died for all of us, not just me.  We have an obligation then, given to us by Christ, to act out our faith not only in doing good deeds, but ritually as well. It is what Christ commands and it is for the benefit of the body as well as for us as individuals. 

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to not forget that I am part of a body of many believers and I need to concern myself with them as well as myself.  Help me to be willing to do what needs to be done according to your command.

Amen