Hypocrisy

We all say we hate hypocrites...something insulting and disrespectful as they pawn themselves off as something they are not.  Jesus certainly spoke strongly against this vice and called out the Pharisees about their hypocrisy in no uncertain terms as we read in today's Gospel, Mt 23:23-26.
In startling contrast to these deceivers, St. Rose of Lima stands out as a model of authenticity and simplicity, having led a life of prayer and service to others.  She hid her physical beauty but the beauty of her life shone forth to the people of Lima and still shines to us today.  May we, like she, strive to "die to self" and put Jesus first, emptying from our lives anything that stands in the way. May we strive to be genuine and eliminate any traces of hypocrisy we find within ourselves.
Bro. Rene