2 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 11-12 / Matthew 23:13-22
The idea of contrast is not just to differentiate the properties of two objects, but also to see the strength and depth of each of those objects.
The idea of contrast is applied to a wide range of comparison - from images, to words whether spoken or written, and to almost what can be heard and seen and felt.
The two readings of today may be seen in the light of contrast.
In the 1st reading, St. Paul affirmed the Thessalonians of their faith in the midst of persecutions and troubles.
He further encouraged them to complete all the good that they were doing through faith because the name of Jesus Christ will be glorified in them.
But in the gospel, Jesus had some tough words for the scribes and Pharisees. He called them hypocrites and fools for what they say and do.
So even though the scribes and Pharisee were seen to be religious people, what they did and say did not give glory to God.
Among their failings was that they did not guide people to God, which was what religious people essentially should do.
We may not consider ourselves as religious people but it is undeniable that we are people of faith.
Let not our faith and our lives be a contrast or a contradiction. Rather by our faith and our lives may the name of Jesus Christ be glorified.