October 30, 2005

Mt 23:1-12
Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying, "The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people's shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. All their works are performed to be seen.
They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation 'Rabbi.' As for you, do not be called 'Rabbi.' You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. Do not be called 'Master'; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted." The reading is about humility. Humility requires putting the needs of others first. Actions are in this case speaking louder than words. Societal status of dress, seating and title are all insignificant. The higher importance is the call of God and respect for God over all other things. It is quite easy to put burdens on other peoples shoulders. There are many "good Christians" who consider themselves as having done good deeds because they found volunteers and others to do their work. As the reading above stated it is hypocritical if they themselves do not lift a finger to help. Prefer nothing to the love of Christ. I pray today for the vision and strength to see the path that God has made for me today. And the wisdom to follow it with love and a full and open heart.