Gospel 

Luke 11:37-41

After Jesus had spoken, a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home. He entered and reclined at table to eat. The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal. The Lord said to him, “Oh you Pharisees Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil. You fools! Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside? But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you.”

Sermon

My brothers and sisters in Christ, Jesus' encounter with a Pharisee reveals the importance of inner purity over outward appearances.

The Pharisee's Concern:

- Invites Jesus to dine

- Expects ritual washing before meal

- Focus on external cleanliness

Jesus' Response:

- Criticizes Pharisees' hypocrisy

- Condemns focus on outward appearance

- Emphasizes inner cleanliness through generosity

Key Points:

1. Outer cleanliness is not enough (v. 39)

2. Inner purity comes from giving to others (v. 41)

3. God values the heart over external rituals

Implications for Us:

- Evaluate our priorities: outward appearance or inner purity?

- Recognize the connection between generosity and inner cleanliness

- Seek to please God, not human standards

Conclusion:

May we focus on cleansing our hearts, not just our hands.

Reflection Questions:

1. What are your priorities: outward appearance or inner purity?

2. How do you demonstrate generosity and inner cleanliness?

3. What areas of your life need spiritual cleansing?

Prayer

Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Almighty, merciful, and loving God, cleanse our hearts and minds. May our generosity reflect Your love. Help us prioritize inner purity over outward appearances. May our actions flow from a heart transformed by You.

Lord Jesus, cleanse our hearts. May our generosity reflect Your love.

We pray for:

- Inner cleanliness through generosity

- Freedom from hypocrisy and external focus

- Courage to evaluate priorities

- Wisdom to seek spiritual guidance

- Faith to trust Your love

In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.

+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ