Today's gospel speaks of the "judgement of the nations." In Jewish tradition the nations were the Gentiles, in other words, people who were not Jewish and therefore not under the Law. Matthew's community is composed of both Jews and Gentiles. How would they have understood the term "nations"? As the new Israel, united as one through the blood of the Cross, it is easy to imagine that they would understand the "nations" as referring to non-Christians. The new Law for followers of "the Way" has already been given earlier in the gospel. That law is a higher Law because it asks a higher standard of disciples: "For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (Mtt 5: 23) Thus, the non-Christians of the world will be judged by one standard while Christians will be judged by another since: "From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from whom the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded." (Lk 12: 48) The recent gospel readings from the Lectionary have all warned against complacency, entitlement and apathy. Let us all strive to become better and more faithful disciples who never lose heart and are faithful to the Lord until the end.
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