May 6, 2014

Matthew 23:  ¹² For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Jesus is instructing the disciples.  None is to be called Rabbi or Father.  He explains, in no uncertain terms, what is wrong with the leadership of the church.  The Pharisees are hypocrites, showing off and preventing others from following God while glorifying themselves. 

This is not the meek and mild Jesus.  This is the get-down Jesus, who spares no emotion in letting his followers know what they are and what they are not to do.  It must be hard to read these words when you are a leader in the church, b/c the temptation to abuse power is there today as it was in the past.  Humility is the call, but how do you balance that with the people's need to see someone who "speaks with authority," as Jesus himself did?  I guess we must constantly guard against the human tendency towards pride.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to be humble.  Guide my words and actions so that You and not I am glorified.  I am so grateful for the gift of faith You have given me.  Your loving guidance has brought me so far, and I seek the path to follow Your plan for my future.
Amen