Even believers these days try to live by a rigid set of dos and don’ts that go beyond the clear teaching of Scripture.

Like the pharisees, we are tempted to be more concerned about the externals of the faith, rather than the larger principals of Justice and the Love of God.

Jesus told the Pharisees in Luke 11 verse 42: {Message Bible]:

“I’ve had it with you! You’re hopeless, you Pharisees! Frauds! You keep meticulous account books, tithing on every nickle and dime you get, but manage to find loopholes for getting around basic matters of justice and God’s love. careful bookkeeping is commendable, but the basics are required.

Given Jesus’ treatment of the self-righteous Pharisees, what do we all keep around us in regard to self-righteousness. Remembering we can never earn our way to heaven.

Our Lord and Our Friend displayed love and mercy and justice, and anything that is different from this will stop us all from being effective vessels for him.

God Bless.

O F J