Love and Humility

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 the 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; and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."

Consideration: This passage is just as relevant today as it was when Jesus spoke it over two thousand years ago. Leaders of the church are called to love their flock and to sacrifice for them. The greatest honor that can be bestowed upon them is to be loved and cherished by the people of God. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."