1Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, 2"The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; 3so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. 4They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger. 5They do all their deeds to be seen by men; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, 6and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues, 7and salutations in the market places, and being called rabbi by men. 8But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brethren. 9And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. 10Neither be called masters, for you have one master, the Christ. 11He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; 12whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
Matthew 23:1-12
ReplyDeleteThe passage warns us that any message carried by men, can be tarnished by their humanness. Jesus recommends that we follow the word and not the example of men carrying the word. Loving God, help me to come back to your word to discover the path you have foirged for me. Amen.
This is a strong and concise reflection. You’ve captured the core warning of the passage—that human messengers, even those who teach God’s word, are fallible. It’s a reminder not to let the failures of religious leaders (or any human authority) shake our faith in God’s truth.
DeleteI also like your emphasis on returning to God’s word rather than relying solely on people’s interpretations. That’s a powerful safeguard against being led astray by ego, hypocrisy, or human weakness.
A possible addition could be acknowledging the humility Jesus calls us to—the contrast between seeking titles, status, and recognition versus simply serving. But overall, this is a strong and faithful response.
Your prayer is beautiful, too—simple, direct, and heartfelt. Well said! 🙏