The Road Devotional | Lent 2024

Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.”

Jesus often uses the moment to teach his disciples, even while in the process of preaching to the crowds. In this moment, Jesus used the metaphor “yeast” to describe the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. He uses this metaphor because yeast has an ability to spread and grow, to permeate and affect every part of the bread, and as it does, the bread rises. In other words, Jesus is saying that as they are spreading hypocrisy around, as it continues to fester and seep into every aspect of their lives, their power grows, as does the level of their hypocrisy.

Q. What could someone say is the “yeast” of your life? What are you spreading in your world? Is it negativity, hypocrisy, and judgment like the Pharisees? Is it peace, justice, love, and repentance like Jesus? Is it somewhere in between?

One theory about what Jesus means when he says “There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known”, Jesus is calling out those who would process faith in him privately but would not have the strength or conviction to profess (in word, thought, and deed) that faith publicly. This of course is hypocrisy when we act like completely different people when we think others are watching. Faith is meant to be lived authentically. Our actions and our beliefs need to be aligned. Jesus is also reminding the disciples that nothing remains hidden. Eventually the truth emerges. Rather than instilling fear, this is an encouragement for them to remain transparent and honest.

Q. When have you failed to be faithful because of who was watching?

God, help me to be aware of how the yeast of hypocrisy in my life affects those around me, including our relationship with You. May I live authentically, transparently sharing my struggles and victories with You and with others. Illuminate the hidden corners of my heart with Your light, and may my life be a testament to Your transforming grace. In Jesus' name, we pray.

Amen.