Let the dead buy their dead

Dear brethren,

Today's readings:

2Chronicles 22,23; 2Kings 11; Psalm 131; Matthew 8

Matthew 8:22 (KJV)
But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.

How could "the dead bury their dead"?
The original meaing in "Bury" alludes to the funeral rites. The first "dead" does not refer to physical death but those who are in need of spiritual revival. It is interesting that as much importance as we often attach to funeral rites, the Mosaical Law is pretty much silent on this.
This it appears more of an excuse to follow after traditions. Mourning periods can sometimes span a year.
Was Jesus telling the disciple to ignore "filial piety"? Of course not! Both the Old and New laws teach the importance of respecting and rendering obedience to our parents. In fact, one who curses his parents or is an unruly, recalcitrant child can be even be put to death (Ex 21:17; Deu 21:18-21)! But the important thing is to show piety when our parents are alive! Not when they are dead! No amount of respect/piety is of any use save as a show of it to others.
And that was Jesus' point. It is easy to render lip service, but when the time comes for us to put our shoulders to the wheel, all kinds of excuses come up (c.f. Luk 14:16-20).
It remains for us today to walk the talk. That we love not just in word but in deed (1Jo 3:18). That our faith is demonstrated by works (Jam 2:17,20,24,26). That we no longer serve as the old man but strive as new creatures (2Co 5:17). Let us not be partakers of "dead burial" but indeed engage in the life giving work of preaching the gospel (Luk 9:60).