Kingdom Manna

Treasures

Matthew 5:20, For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Perfection. A goal we all reach for in different ways. Some paragons drive themselves and those around them to distraction in their search. Some display extreme patience and understanding with errors and mishaps, except in one special section of talent or gift or service when nothing less than excellence will be accepted. And there not the smallest detail escapes notice.

Artists often sigh at the end of a work because the vision that impulsed the idea could not be fully caught.

We strain. We stretch. We strive.

Pharisees and scribes purposed to keep the Law, to live holy lives, to maintain righteousness. As keepers and teachers of God’s words they knew His many promises to all who would be righteous. And they added codicils to the commandments to give themselves and Israel clearer boundaries.

To reach God’s standards. To be worthy of so great a love, so great a trust.

White washed tombs, Jesus said.

Perfection gone astray. The plan replaced the purpose. “For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they have not submitted to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.”

Wrap me up in Your righteous robes, Lord. Forgive me for looking for any excellence apart from You. Cover my heart.

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 132:9

Let your priests be clothed with righteousness,

and let your faithful shout for joy.