27 February, 2024 | Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent

 Reading : Is 1:10, 16-20

Gospel 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."

Reflections:

Jesus warns us against the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees, who teach the law of Moses but do not practice what they preach. They seek honour and recognition from people but do not give glory to God. They impose heavy burdens on people but do not lift a finger to help them. So, Jesus tells us that we are not to imitate their example, but rather to follow his way of humility and service. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” 

The greatest is the one who serves, that is, the person who uses his or her gifts for the benefit of others, whose whole life is dedicated to making this world a better place for others to live in.  Jesus himself is the model of this attitude, for he came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. He is the source of all authority and grace, and he shares his gifts with us so that we may serve one another in love.

Activity: 

 Be faithful to the word of God and the teachings of the Church; serve others in love and do not seek our own honour and recognition.