Homily for the Memorial of St. Teresa of Jesus

Experience teaches us that people have different priorities and values. What is essential to me may be unimportant to someone else. We can become upset when something we believe is necessary is not taken seriously by someone else.

Observance of prescribed washing before meals was more critical for his host than for Jesus. They had conflicting priorities. Certain rituals and practices, like prescribed washings, were less important to Jesus than the values and attitudes of our minds and souls. 

Jesus then discusses almsgiving, caring for those living in poverty, as a way to purify one's deepest self. Love takes precedence over human-made rituals.

It's important to remember that what we consider vital may only sometimes align with Jesus' values. To be like Him, we must allow Him to shape us more than we shape ourselves. Our ultimate goal should be to align our priorities with His, as this is the path to spiritual growth, guiding us on our journey.