Ephesians 4:32 - 5:8 / Luke 13:10-17
It can be quite difficult to understand negative criticism, especially when it is directed at something that is done out of charity and goodwill.
Take for example, on Sundays, the members of the various church organizations will take turns to operate the canteen.
There is no doubt that they take a lot of time and effort and energy just to get things up and going early on Sunday and to have the food prepared and ready for serving.
Yet, for this labour of love and for the purpose of fellowship, we have heard of complaints like the food is expensive or not tasty enough and what have you.
Well, as we look at it, that is nothing new actually. In the gospel, Jesus healed the woman who for eighteen years was possessed by a spirit that left her enfeebled and bent double and unable to stand upright.
Yet, He was criticized for healing on the wrong day. On other occasions, Jesus was criticized for teaching the people the wrong way.
Very often in life, some intended good act or kind deed is held back and not carried out because some system or protocol is not followed or adhered to.
Whether it is in Church or in the working world, we are tempted to find security and comfort in the oppressive system and outdated laws at the expense of helping others and doing good.
Yet these are the bonds that tie us down and leave us enfeebled and unable to stand up for truth and justice.
Let us untie these bond by first binding our tongues of criticism and holding back the harsh word.
As the 1st reading will remind us: You were darkness once, but now you are light in the Lord; be like children of light.