Matthew 23:13
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You lock the kingdom of heaven before human beings. You do not enter yourselves, nor do you allow entrance to those trying to enter.”

When it comes to what we consider morally offensive behavior Jesus says almost nothing. He always extends love and compassion to such people thereby helping to transform them. But this is not the way of the Pharisees. The religious leaders of the time held people to strict rules without compassion. These are the only people Jesus sharply criticized. Compassion opens the doors to the kingdom of heaven (kingdom of God) which Jesus is again talking about in the present tense. The Pharisees not only block others from entering but themselves as well. Compassion changes hearts and leads to transformation. Open your heart to God’s free and unconditional love.

Suggested song of the day—“God’s Love Is All You Need” on the Listen to Your Heart album.
All songs available on iTunes. Click on the link under blogroll to the right.
Have a blessed day!