The Pharisees, the “religious elite” of Jesus’ day, used to moan: “Had we lived in our forefathers’ time we would not have joined them in shedding the prophets’ blood” (Mt 23:30). This claim of theirs got under Jesus’ skin, and He said in response, “Thus you show that you are the sons of the prophets’ murderers. Now it is your turn: fill up the vessel measured out by your forefathers” (Mt 23:31-32). They criticized the sins of their fathers, while committing the same sins themselves.

The nails were driven into Jesus’ hands and feet for all people, yet we continue our sinful prejudice (see Rm 5:8). We say we wonder how anyone or any group could commit such atrocities as Hitler and the Nazis did. Meanwhile, Jesus wonders how we can stand by idly while millions upon millions of children are cut to pieces inside the womb. Sins such as pornography, racism, human trafficking, corporate and personal greed, and genocide continue in the present day.

Let’s stop filling up the vessels measured out by our forefathers (Mt 23:32). The Lord calls us to repent, be forgiven, be holy in His sight, and full of love (Eph 1:4, 7).

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