Jesus says, “unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” On the surface that sounds rather intimidating. After all, the Pharisees were scrupulous in keeping a long list of laws. But the Pharisees focused more on outer actions (hand washing, Sabbath rules) and not on the inner condition of their hearts. The righteousness Jesus calls for is rooted in humility, purity of heart and a desire to work on those aspects of our soul that are most important, such as integrity, gentleness, respect and mercy. Jesus says, “unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” On the surface that sounds rather intimidating. After all, the Pharisees were scrupulous in keeping a long list of laws. But the Pharisees focused more on outer actions (hand washing, Sabbath rules) and not on the inner condition of their hearts. The righteousness Jesus calls for is rooted in humility, purity of heart and a desire to work on those aspects of our soul that are most important, such as integrity, gentleness, respect and mercy.