you say immediately that it is going to rain–and so it does;
and when you notice that the wind is blowing from the south
you say that it is going to be hot–and so it is.
You hypocrites!
You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky;
why do you not know how to interpret the present time?
"Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right?
If you are to go with your opponent before a magistrate,
make an effort to settle the matter on the way;
otherwise your opponent will turn you over to the judge,
and the judge hand you over to the constable,
and the constable throw you into prison.
I say to you, you will not be released
until you have paid the last penny."
REFLECTION
You hypocrites!
In today's Gospel, Our Lord warns us against hypocrisy. Hypocrisy is pridefully pretending to have virtues that one does not possess. Jesus criticizes the hypocrisy of the Pharisees because they claim and appear to be wise by interpreting the clouds to predict the upcoming weather.
However, they were not actually wise because they could not interpret the meaning of the present time. The Pharisees were unable to see Our Lord's call for faith and repentance.
We should also interpret the present time. Listen to the call of the Lord for faith and repentance. When we hear the Word of God at Church, we should always consider the deeper meaning. Take some time every day in silence to consider the Holy Gospel and how you should apply it to your life. When you receive the Holy Eucharist, earnestly ask Jesus for His grace. When you confess your sins, sincerely ask Our Lord for the grace of true repentance. Most importantly, often converse with God in prayer.
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