The readings of the day invite us to reflect on how authentic our righteousness really is. Are we busy helping everybody else while neglecting our very own people struggling at home? Do we find ourselves strutting at a church service when we still have scores to settle with family or neighbours?
God wants us to do a self-appraisal: without this there can be no change for the better. He happily welcomes even the greatest sinner who has had a change of heart. “None of the transgressions which he has committed shall be remembered against him.” But if a good man turns wicked, “none of the righteous deeds which he has done shall be remembered” for much is expected from those to whom much has been given.
That is not asking for too much. Once on the path of righteousness we will experience true freedom. What’s more, we will have entry into the kingdom of Heaven which is the crown of righteousness.