Ordinary 22

Obedience is the evidence of a wise and intelligent people according to Moses in Deuteronomy. Just as disobedience was the first sin and led to all of our troubles, obedience is faith lived out and leads to blessing.

James encourages us to be "doers of the Word". His letter is a coornerstone of works and faith together building up the Body of Christ.

Jesus points out that the Pharisees are concerned about external matters rather than what is in the heart. We also tend to judge others by externals. Only God can truly know the heart. A person's actions will reveal some insights into where their heart is.

The question of Tradition and traditions would be appropriate.