"Alas for you,  Scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites!”
(Matthew 23:23)

The Scribes and Pharisees obeyed all the external requirements that seemed noble in the eyes of men, but neglected to practice the higher qualities, those which are generated from the heart, where God alone can see.  Therefore they were condemned for their show of “virtue” on the one hand and their lack of justice, mercy and good faith on the other. They had no compassion for those over whom they had authority.  I can remember a number of instances when a little compassion and discretion were used in place of punishment and condemnation, much to the gratitude of the recipient.

Father, help us as we do our ‘good works’ that they will be done with the right intentions, help us always to remember that men judge the outside but you Father see our hearts, we pray this through Jesus your Son.  Amen