Whitewashed Tombs - Weekday Homily Video

Expressions like wow and whoa convey feelings of surprise, wonder, and great acclaim, and are articulated particularly when we come across a fascinating building, a great piece of art, architecture, scenery, or a grand monument.

When we scan through some of the fine buildings, monuments, or structures around the globe, we find that many of these majestic edifices and constructions are tombs or burial places.

For example, Westminster Abbey in London is a tomb for the monarchs and the famous people of England. The Terracotta Army sculptures are tombs of the armies of the First Emperor of China; the Great Pyramids of Giza, a tomb of the Pharaohs and the Kings of ancient Egypt.  Taj Mahal is the tomb of Mumtaz, wife of Emperor Shahjahan, in Agra, India. All these man-made structures evoke feelings of awe and wonder. 

The Gospel of Matthew, too, presents tombstones in the form of the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law. But what is the feeling that is evoked? Not surprise or wonder, but anguish, sadness, and woe. "Woe to you," Jesus says. 

In ancient Jewish custom, graves were whitened to prevent accidental defilement. This was done to warn people to avoid them due to the ceremonial impurity caused by touching a grave (see Num. 19:16). For this purpose, tombs in Palestine were painted with lime paste or whitewash every year. Whitewashing served two purposes: 1) It made tombs easily identifiable so they could be avoided. 2) It enhanced the appearance of tombs, making them admirable.

Beautiful on the Outside

The Lord calls the Pharisees and teachers whitewashed tombs. "They looked like tombs: filthy and dead." However, they were whitewashed, beautiful, and lovely from the outside. Despite doing many things to win people's admiration, they failed to please the Lord of the Law. Despite fasting many times, they failed to be merciful and charitable. Their prayers were many, but they failed to help and serve others.

Human life has always been fascinated and attracted by the beauty of externals. Anything that appears excellent and captivating has captured the minds and hearts of humans. The serpent tempted Eve with its delicious and good-looking fruit. Lot asked for the whole Jordan Plain from Abraham because it looked green and nice. Israelites made the golden calf their God because it appeared more attractive. 

Who Am I On the Inside?

We are invited to ask ourselves, Is my life like a whitewashed tombstone—beautiful on the outside but filthy on the inside? Although I have a lovely house and an excellent job, is my life in tatters due to fights and conflicts? Prayer and praise adorn my prayer life, but do I experience unforgiveness and hatred? My works are frequently praised and admired, but am I corrupt and insincere? While my community life is filled with laughter and good words, do I lack acceptance and love from those around me? I have many friends, and my life is filled with parties and fun, but do I miss out on having a genuine friend deep down? We must be cautious if we can answer yes to any of these questions.  

The world may view my life as a magnificent edifice, but is my heart pure and holy, and is it seeking authenticity and genuineness?

The Example of Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine realized that his life seemed to be a whitewashed tomb. But the Lord touched him, and he changed. As a result of his transformation, Saint Augustine stands as a beautiful monument both externally and in the eyes of God and His people. He can intercede for us. Let us be inspired by his example. Our lives should not only be adorned with an external show but also with an inner glow. “My heart is restless until it rests in you.” 

Saint Augustine, pray for us.

• Today’s Readings

• Father Boby's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and Rosary) on the Family Rosary YouTube page. 

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