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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 market-places, 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. (Matthew 23:1-12)
This passage is the one recommended for this coming Sunday by the Lectionary. Jesus takes this opportunity to talk to believers and would-be believers about the religious of His day. The Scribes and Pharisees had among their number, some who loved their position better than their passion they should have had for God. Jesus did say their authority was based on solid ground, the teachings of Moses, so they should follow them, but not to live their lives as they did, for their abuse of power and privilege blessed no one except themselves. Those who would follow Jesus should devote their lives to loving and serving God and others, rather than to be worried about themselves.
Jesus is basically saying, It's not about titles, dress, and privilege; it's about love and service. One of the greatest models of humility and service was the late Mother Theresa of Calcutta. Her devotion to God and committed service to the sick and dying around the world elevated her recognition and status among many, but when asked about that, she said she was trying to be like the little donkey that carried Jesus into Jerusalem. She understood Jesus when He talked about "The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted."
Saint Josemaria Escriva, who lived in the 1940s wrote in his prayer life: "Jesus, since I am your donkey, give me the stubbornness and fortitude of a donkey, so that I can fulfill your lovable will." Now since your prayer life is between you and God, I cannot tell you what you wish, but we can pray and say, "Lord, bless me in ways that I can bless You and bless those whom You send my way."
PRAYER: Loving God, let me love You in ways that serve and bless You. I thank You for Jesus and His teaching. Make me desire ways to better serve You and empower me to be faithful and fruitful. This I pray in Christ Jesus' strong name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! Donkey or Tiger, it's our choice, but choose which serves God best.
Eradio Valverde
