The readings today consider three ways of living our lives. The first is by self-indulgence where I do everything I want to do and to hell with the consequences for anyone else. This kind of life is often lived in the name of 'freedom'. The results, however, as we can see so often in our society can be tragic - unrestricted sexual behaviour (promiscuity, rape, unwanted pregnancies, abortion), anger and violence and murder, prejudice and discrimination, abuse of chemical substances (nicotine, alcohol, other narcotic drugs, medical drugs). And much more. The second is that epitomized by the Scribes and Pharisees. Life is determined by a set of laws and regulations which have to be blindly followed irrespective of their effects on oneself or others. This may avoid some of the problems of the first way, may give a feeling of 'rightness' but produces people who are rigid, intolerant and singularly lacking in love and compassion. They are not unknown among religious people, including Catholics. Lastly, there is the way of the Spirit. It goes beyond the law because any life which is governed by the Truth and Love that comes from God can do no wrong. Not only that - and this is how we know we are in the Spirit - we experience deep joy, peace, patience, kindness, integrity, gentleness and a self-discipline which is a sign of true inner freedom.