Tuesday of Week 6 Year 1

When we speak of yeast, we normally speak of a kind of substance which enables bread to expand and rise, making the bread more pleasing to look at and eat once baked. In today's Gospel, Jesus warned us of a "yeast" which is a little different. What sort of yeast is Jesus trying to tell us? Jesus was speaking about a kind of "yeast" that was both religious and political which we should watch out for. This "yeast" refers to "attitude"; and the "attitude" of the Pharisees and the "attitude" of Herod could corrupt one’s "attitude" as a Christian.

The "yeast" of the Pharisees is narrow-minded religious exclusivism. It is an attitude that says only those who believe and behave like the Pharisees are saved, everyone else is damned or are of no consequence. The "yeast" of Herod, on the other hand, is the exact opposite of the Pharisees. Herod was prepared to water down the Jewish faith to suit his purposes. Herod was only interested in preserving His political power, and was not the least bit interested in doing the will of God.

What about us? Have we been corrupted or infected with the "yeast" of the Pharisees and the "yeast" of Herod? Have we been behaving as religious extremists like the Pharisees, thinking that our beliefs and way of doing things is the only way? Or have we become so worldly in our behaviour and conduct, only interested in protecting our power, position and prestige, and watering down our faith or even totally ignoring the ways of God? May we take caution and not be infected or corrupted by such "yeast," and in all things do with love and moderation, for the glory of God.