The greatness and strength of a people depends on their collective pursuit of justice and peace, as well as the faith they have in God. Too often we measure our worth by standards that are worldly rather than spiritual. The prophets teach us that the way we treat the poor, weak, and helpless is a good indication of the quality of our spirituality. Any society that walks in evil and injustice cannot expect to thrive or survive. The same applies for individuals. We always need to ask ourselves what our spiritual ideals are and how well we actually practise them.

Jesus warns us that 'lip service' to his teachings will never do. Talk is easy and cheap. Being 'religious' will not help much either - crying out 'Lord, Lord' all the time is easy and costs us nothing. Only the one who puts the teachings into practice, applying these principles to their own life, will truly be a disciple of Jesus. His teachings are practical and meant for everyday life. He shows that a house not built on a solid foundation will be swept away by wind and floods, but one built on rock will be solid and able to withstand anything. So it is with us: those who put the teachings of Jesus into practice will be transformed and strengthened, able to withstand whatever life brings us. The gospel is for living well and becoming the person God intended us to be.