Matthew 23:1-12 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 23:1-12 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 23Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, Verse 2"The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; Verse 3therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. Verse 4They 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. Verse 5They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. Verse 6They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, Verse 7and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. Verse 8But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. Verse 9And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father-the one in heaven. Verse 10Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. Verse 11The greatest among you will be your servant. Verse 12All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Devotion
A number of years ago a Burger King slogan was, "Have it your way." People today seem to want life their way and that way is the easy way. The religious leaders of Jesus' day wanted life their way too. The religious leaders did not like Jesus telling them life was not about having your own way, but following MY WAY. The way of Jesus is the way of love and humility.
Humility is resisting the temptation to look at the world or life for our own fulfillment rather than what a person has been given for the sake of the neighbor. Humility is acknowledging that the gifts, talents and serving we do is God's gift working in us and through us.
You can have life your way, but life will be lonely, unfulfilled and empty. Having life Christ's way, the way of serving and humility, is where you will find joy, freedom and peace.
Prayer
Living Christ, forgive us for seeking our own ways and drawing attention to ourselves. Empower us and renew us to be more like Christ as we humble ourselves before you. Amen.