Beware

The Pharisees and Sadducees came, and to test Jesus they asked him to show them a sign from heaven. He answered them, ‘When it is evening, you say, “It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.” And in the morning, “It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.” You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. An evil and adulterous generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.’ Then he left them and went away.

When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to bring any bread. Jesus said to them, ‘Watch out, and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’ They said to one another, ‘It is because we have brought no bread.’ And becoming aware of it, Jesus said, ‘You of little faith, why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not perceive? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? How could you fail to perceive that I was not speaking about bread? Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees!’ Then they understood that he had not told them to beware of the yeast of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Matthew 16:1-12

We see caution tape and cones in many places as we walk the streets of New York City. Repairs and rehabs are happening everywhere. The city sidewalks are crowded, and one has to dodge and weave the obstacles on the pavement. We have to be careful when we move through the day, through crowds and through unfamiliar places. We also have to be careful not to be distracted or lead astray by big talkers and charismatic characters.

Jesus was continually tested by the religious leaders and the arrogant big talkers who were threatened by his humble, yet miraculous impact. He was aware that they were often more worried about being right than doing good. They wanted fame rather than faithfulness. We are invited by God to hear the clear caution to avoid being swayed by big talkers and self-appointed authorities. 

Today, I ask God to help me be always focused on the love of God rather than the teaching of humans. May we all not bow to big talkers or the powerful religious leaders, but rather to the compassionate heart of God.