Today’s Catholic Reflection
In 2 Thessalonians, Paul urges the community to separate from those who do not follow the teachings they have received. He shares his own experience, showing how he and his companions worked hard to avoid burdening others. Paul states that those who do not work should not expect to eat. He ends with a blessing of peace and grace from the Lord.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus speaks against the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees. He compares them to whitewashed tombs, appearing beautiful on the outside but corrupt inside. Jesus points out their honor for the prophets while still being part of their persecution. He warns them that they are repeating the mistakes of their ancestors who rejected the prophets, encouraging them to see their own faults.