22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
In our reading, Moses is talking to the people of Israel about the 10 Commandments which were given to them by God. These rules are to help us to live good lives and to be happy. When we obey the commandments, others will see how wise we are and that we know what is good.
In our Gospel, some Pharisees and teachers of the Jewish law came to see Jesus and they noticed that Jesus’ disciples ate without washing their hands first is a special way. The Jewish people had many traditions like this that they always followed. They asked Jesus why the disciples didn’t follow these customs and rules. Jesus called them hypocrites. They followed the “extra traditions” but didn’t follow the Commandments given by God. They were often stealing, murdering, selfish, unjust, disrespectful of God, bragging, etc.
Special Saint/Feast Day: - St. Aidan of Lindisfarne – August 31
Aidan was a seventh century Irish monk. He lived by the words of St. Paul that easy teachings are to be given to others first. He was sent to North England to preach the Gospel to the pagan people. Aidan went willingly and he took on his new assignment with humility and a spirit of prayer. He began by preaching and helping the people. He was kind to the poor and preferred a simple lifestyle. He did much good and was greatly loved by the people.
He built a monastery on the island of Lindisfarne where many missionaries became saints. Lindisfarne became known as the Holy Island. These missionaries helped change North England into a civilized, Christian land.
We can learn from St. Aidan’s life that the witness of a joyful, kind person truly touches others. When we need help seeing the good in people, we can pray to St. Aidan.