Our Promises – Reflection on Matthew 5:33-37
The Christian notion that we consist of body, mind, and soul is often influenced by the idea of human spirit. Our human spirit comprises intellect, emotions, passions, creativity, and character, which are all present within our mind. Jesus wants us to firmly understand the importance of keeping these parts of ourselves working together to make us whole. If we effectively disassociate one part of ourselves, we have lost the concept of mind, body, and soul working together. This is especially true when we confuse or override the intuitions of our divine soul, emphasizing the human spirit. For example, we must consider that our promises (oaths) always include our souls. So if we shake hands (body) only in partial agreement (mind or human spirit) without prayer beforehand (soul), we are disrupting commitments and sacrifices that we make to and for God (via our soul). Without this unity, we cannot be the person we should be for others.
Jesus Discourses with His Disciples by James Tissot (full resolution image of painting)
More details are available at the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 5:33-37 – Scripture (NRSV Bible)
Concerning Oaths
33 “Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37 Let your word be ‘Yes, Yes’ or ‘No, No’; anything more than this comes from the evil one.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 5:33-37 Reflection – Our Promises.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate various forms of expression in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 5 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.
Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Our Promises
Page and discussion group on these Lectio Divina daily Gospel Readings.
Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.