Jesus rebuked the religious leaders and called down woes on them for two reasons. First, they were hypocrites. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees were supposed to lead people to God. Instead, they threw burdens on them that shut the door to the kingdom of God in their faces. They were supposed to be shepherds, and outwardly they looked like it, travelling long distances to win converts. But when they found one, they became just like them. They had no idea of the justice and mercy of God, so they could neither practice it, nor teach others to do so.

Secondly, the religious leaders were blind. The teaching of the religious leaders about oaths was twisted. They valued gold and gifts above the temple and altar that were made holy by God’s presence. They were blind to God, who makes all things holy. We should guard ourselves against misplaced priorities and live with integrity and not hypocrisy. Our worship should center on the giver rather than the gift. Ultimately, Jesus calls us to see clearly and honor God above all else.
Application: Father, help me not to live, not blindly and hypocritically, but in seeking you and practicing justice and mercy.
One Word: Practice justice, mercy, and faithfulness