The attitude of
the Pharisees as narrated in our gospel today can produce two results – results
which are dangerous to Christian life and virtue. These two results are scrupulosity and
self-righteousness. Scrupulosity is the
feeling of guilt every time we commit even the smallest mistake and we would be
so afraid that God would be angry with us.
When I was in High School I remember every time during exams I would go
to extra lengths not to displease God in anyway because he might be angry with
me and I will fail. So every time I got
a low grade, when I would ask myself why I got such low grade, my conclusion
would always be, I did something bad to God that is why he is punishing
me. Now that is scrupulosity.
Another effect is
self-righteousness. Since we have
observed everything and every detail in our relationship with God, the tendency
is to look down on others. I am better
than the rest; I am holier than others; I am much better off in my prayers and
devotions that these ignorant people.
This is the beginning of the most dangerous thing that can happen in a
spiritual journey – we call it spiritual pride.
Scrupulosity –
basi makasala ako ang God will punish me.
Another is Self-Righteousness – I am better than the rest.
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