Universal Utterings

for June 11, 2025

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06-11-25 Matthew 5 v1720 Called Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven

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The Gospel of Matthew 5 Verses 17 thru 20

17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. 18 Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. 19 Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 20 I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the kingdom of heaven.”

In Matthew 5:17-20, Jesus emphasizes the importance of the Law and the Prophets while challenging His followers to pursue a deeper righteousness than that of the scribes and Pharisees. He asserts that He came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it, reinforcing its enduring significance. The scribes and Pharisees, revered for their strict adherence to religious laws, exhibited an outward righteousness shaped by rules and traditions. However, Jesus calls His disciples to embrace a righteousness that transcends mere legalistic observance.

To surpass this righteousness, we must first focus on the heart's intent, not just external actions. Jesus teaches that true righteousness is rooted in love, mercy, and a genuine relationship with God. This means going beyond conventional practices; it involves examining our motives and striving for integrity in our thoughts and actions. For instance, Jesus addresses anger and lust, showing that sin originates in the heart. Thus, overcoming these issues is essential in embodying authentic righteousness.

Additionally, we are called to manifest the principles of the Kingdom of Heaven in our daily lives. This involves embracing humility, compassion, and forgiveness, which the Pharisees often overlooked in their rigid adherence to the Law. Engaging with those marginalized by society, serving others, and embodying love exemplifies this higher standard of righteousness.

In summary, to achieve a righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, we must cultivate a heart aligned with God's character. This transformation is a journey of continual growth and intimacy with God, reflecting His grace and truth in all aspects of life. Amen.

Join me as we pray our daily prayer of forgiveness. The Lord’s Prayer.

At the Savior's command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to pray:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever.

I am sorry Lord. I believe You died and rose for me. Please forgive me as I forgive others. I share You as my Lord and Savior seeking to live your Will in all things. Prayers for wife Toni and my mother Betty pray for our children especially our two oldest Alexandra & Allen Son in Law Mark Stern; Julian, Gabriel and Jeffrey and our grandchildren Oliver, Julian and Elliott. We pray for those we’ve said we’d pray for and those who’ve asked us to pray for them. We pray for the dying as we do each day Lord give them peace in their last breath. We pray for Holy Mother Church. Our prayers for our niece Brittany. In Jesus Precious Blood by His Name we pray. Amen.

I am a poet obedient to Christ,

Catholic Evangelist Thomas Cruz†Wiggins

†Spirit led God inspired Christ fed†®

Ephesians 6:17-20

06-11-25 Matthew 5 v1720

**Called Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven**

In ancient scrolls, the law unfolds,

The Word of truth, in whispers told,

Not cast aside, but fulfilled with grace,

In every heart, He seeks a place.

The scribes and Pharisees, standing tall,

In robes of honor, they heed the call,

But outward deeds, a shallow sign,

Fall short of love that’s truly divine.

“Surpass the norm, let hearts engage,

Seek not the rules that bind like a cage,

For righteousness blooms where mercy flows,

In kindness and love, true living grows.”

With every thought, let purity steer,

In anger and lust, let grace draw near,

Transform the heart, rekindle the flame,

For God’s own image is what we aim.

So cast aside the shadows of guise,

Embrace the light that opens our eyes,

With faith as our guide, let love be our song,

In His righteousness, we all eternally belong. Amen.

© Thomas Joe Cruz†Wiggins

June 11, 2025 @ 04:44 AM EST

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