1 Corinthians 4:6-15 / Luke 6:1-5 (2020 / 2024)
A maxim is a written set of principles or rules of conduct.
In the 1st reading, St. Paul used this word to state a simple principle or rule and that is "Keep to what is written".
Most probably he was referring to the Scriptures and to the written set of teachings that were handed to the Christian community at Corinth.
He made recourse to that maxim because the Christians at Corinth were beginning to interpret the teachings to their own convenience and advantage.
What was too demanding and affected them personally they would give leeway for themselves and go with the broadest possible options.
St. Paul wanted to bring them to their senses and to help them see the truth and the reality of their spiritual deterioration.
Yet in the gospel, it was the Pharisees who were harping on keeping to the Law of the Sabbath.
But their intention was to reinforce and propagate their religious fundamentalist ideas.
But it is not a question of rigidity or laxity when it comes to religious teachings.
Jesus came to teach us the Truth so that we will have freedom when we keep to His teachings.
In Jesus, we have the Truth who will lead us to the Way of Life.
Let that be our spiritual maxim.