“Watch out,
guard against the leaven
of the Pharisees
and the leaven of Herod.”
(Mark 8:15)
Jesus challenges us to shift our focus from worry to faith in God's ability to provide. By recalling His blessings and miracles, we can strengthen our faith and trust in His continued provision rather than being anxious about our material needs.
False teachings and hypocritical attitudes can spread and corrupt our faith. We should learn to discern and guard against misleading influences that can harm our spiritual life. Let us remain vigilant, seek spiritual discernment and be open to God's teachings, avoiding a hardened heart.
"Watch out, guard against the leaven," He said,
"Of Pharisees and Herod, be aware,"
For their teachings, like yeast, can spread,
A subtle influence, a hidden snare.
In the heart, where purity should dwell,
False doctrines creep, a silent spell.
They twist the truth, obscure the way,
Lead many souls from light to stray.
So keep your faith, be vigilant,
In Christ's teachings, be diligent.
Guard your heart, let truth abide,
And in His love, you'll safely hide.
Lord Jesus,
You warn us to be vigilant and aware of the subtle influences that corrupt and ensnare. Help us to guard our hearts and minds with care, and to seek Your truth, in Your love to share. Protect us from the leaven of false teachings and pride, guide us in Your wisdom, with You as our guide.
May we remain steadfast in our faith so pure, in Your Word and Spirit, let us always endure.
Grant us discernment to see what is right, to follow Your path, shining bright. For in Your love, we find our strength, and in Your truth, we go to any length.
Amen.
Pericope:
II: The Mystery of Jesus
THE LEAVEN OF THE PHARISEES
Mark 8:14-21
Gospel Acclamation
Whoever loves me will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him and we will come to him.
Gospel | Mark 8:14-21
14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. 15 Jesus enjoined them, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” 16 They concluded among themselves that it was because they had no bread. 17 When he became aware of this he said to them, “Why do you conclude that it is because you have no bread? Do you not yet understand or comprehend? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes and not see, ears and not hear? And do you not remember, 19 when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many wicker baskets full of fragments you picked up?” They answered him, “Twelve.” 20 “When I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many full baskets of fragments did you pick up?” They answered him, “Seven.” 21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
