Luke 12:49-56
The hypocrites do know how to interpret what is really happening momentarily. They often feign lack of awareness, frequently responding with phrases such as “hindi ko alam” (I do not know) and “walang akong paki-alam” (I do not care). The hypocrite strives for division. They are judgmental as well as manipulating the truth. Apostle Paul describes the hypocrites as claiming to know God; however, they are detestable, disobedient, and unfit in doing good (Titus 1:16). They act pure but harm others, the environment, and even God.
A hypocrite’s goal is to generate conflict within the society by dividing individuals along moral lines. These are dangerous people who are ultimately malevolent. The hypocrites of today are exemplified by our politicians. They pose as patriotic (makabansa), benevolent (makatao), divine (maka-Diyos), and ecologically sensitive (makakalikasan). They abused such moral qualities in order to further their own ambitions for power.
Jesus is aware of the hypocrite’s scheme to destroy this planet. For this reason, Jesus lights a fire for them (v. 49), guarantees that there will be no peace (v. 51a), and foretells a split between the hypocritical and the good (v. 51b). In reality, a hypocrite begins his scheme at home, where there is a selfish mentality and little regard for the other family members. As a result of controlling the family’s riches and snatching up the rights to be the firstborn or head of the household, you must notice that every family member is looking for ways to split off. Although parents foretell their siblings’ futures, they sometimes tolerate them, which leads to rebellion against them (Ephesians 6:4). Therefore, because hypocrites are meant to divide rather than to unify Christians, they have no place in heaven or in God’s kingdom.
It is well known that people in positions of authority are the hypocrites in our current predicament. Instead of keeping us faithful to our constitutions, they keep us divided for them. They are not accountable to the nation; rather, they want to hold onto their position of authority, just as their family did. According to St. Augustine, a man’s depravity is determined by his own free will, which makes him susceptible to corruption. It is undoubtedly true that our politicians act in accordance with their political will, but the people they represent suffer as a result. Their desire to increase their riches and power is the foundation of their political will. Therefore, there is no spiritual value in attaining more riches and power. Therefore, it is only a wicked inclination and a waste of life.
“When the righteous prosper, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people moan,” according to Proverbs 29:2. When it comes to choosing a leader to lead our country, we must adopt a new perspective. Our faith entails changing our country by choosing a new generation of leaders committed to improving the lot of the underprivileged.
Prayer
God of justice, please lead us to be more receptive to changing our country. Although we acknowledge that You are the architect of all countries, please challenge each other to restore greatness to our country. This is our prayer, requesting that you treat us with love and concern. Amen.
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Prof. Ruel D. Garcia is a theology professor at La Consolacion University Philippines as well as the former editor-in-chief of the International Journal on Culture, History, and Religion (IJCHR.paschr.ph).
