Some of us try to do the minimum and expect to get maximum returns. For example, we may not be so hardworking in our studies or job, but we expect to do well or gain an increase in salary or a promotion. However, today’s Gospel reminds us that we cannot just do the minimum and expect to get into the Kingdom of heaven.
In today’s Gospel, “Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If your virtue goes no deeper than that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.'” In the Gospel, we are reminded to do more than the minimum, and also to be in good terms with others. If we have problems or difficulties with a brother or sister, we cannot just ignore the problem or sweep it under the carpet. We must make every effort to forgive and reconcile, while we have the chance to do so. After all, the Gospel warns us: “Come to terms with your opponent in good time while you are still on the way to the court with him, or he may hand you over to the judge and the judge to the officer, and you will be thrown into prison. I tell you solemnly, you will not get out till you have paid the last penny.”
Are we making much effort to love God and neighbour? Or are we content in doing the barest minimum, and put our eternal future at risk?