A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (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.”
Jesus, who came to fulfill and not to abolish the law and the prophets, says of the scribes and Pharisees: “Do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you.” But as for the burdens they place on others and their self-righteousness, Jesus also says: “Do not follow their example.” At the end of today’s Gospel, Jesus’ message to the crowds and to the disciples is unequivocal: “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
God, keep me from the temptation to seek honor and titles that draw attention to myself. Help me refuse to be led by pride, which tempts me to put myself first above others. Jesus calls his disciples to embrace humility and recognize their dependence on you and their need for your grace. Help me do the same, examining my attitudes and motives, and able to prioritize serving and uplifting others rather than seeking personal gain or recognition.
From the responsorial psalm: “Blessed are you who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways! For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; blessed shall you be, and favored.” Make known to me your ways, LORD; teach me your paths!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.