Is it not so? They got rid of the prophets, and you build monuments to them!

For that reason the wisdom of God also said: I will send prophets and apostles and these people
will kill and persecute some of them. But the present generation will have to answer for the blood
of all the prophets that has been shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to
the blood of Zechariah, who was murdered between the altar and the Sanctuary. Yes, I tell you,
the people of this time will have to answer for them all.

A curse is on you, teachers of the law, for you have taken the key of knowledge. You yourselves
have not entered, and you prevented others from entering.”

As Jesus left that place, the teachers of the law and the Pharisees began to harass him, asking
him endless questions, setting traps to catch him in something he might say.

Reflect:

These days we have been listening to some pretty strong words from Jesus directed specifically
at the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. Jesus knew what was in their hearts (cf. Jn 2:24-25)
and hence, was a perfect judge of souls. He was all the more severe on them because, as leaders of
the people, they had greater responsibility to live according to God’s heart and be an inspiration for
the people, but they chose otherwise. It is not surprising that they turned defensive at such hard-hitting
words, especially when made in public. However, in the sacred chamber of their souls, they should
have recognized the truth of Jesus’ words and repented; instead, they hardened their hearts, refusing
to accept their guilt and deciding to eliminate Jesus. That is what power does: silence the voice of
truth. Let us pray today for our leaders – in the Church and in the secular world – to have hearts after
the heart of the Good Shepherd.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2022