20th Sunday After Pentecost
Matthew 23:1-12 (NRSV)
Humble yourselves
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, "The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Reflection
Look to the teacher who can teach and practice. They may not be able to practice to perfection but at least they have a deep desire to practice what they preach. Make sure there is a lab involved with the teaching. Those are the real teachers. Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Jesus, as I look at your life, you acted out what you taught. Teach me likewise, that I may learn in the lab to do what you have taught... today... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen
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