Reflections on Matthew 23: 1-12 Do not Imitate the Teachers of the Law

Read Matthew 23: 1-12

The first part of the reading speaks about the Pharisees seated on the chair of Moses. Thus, they have every right to administer or govern the Jewish faith and traditions. They have the authority to preside over ceremonies, sacrifices, etc. as heirs to the leadership of Moses. The “burdens” that the text speaks of, is probably the burden of sins. If you will remember in the past, those who have leprosy are being cast away because the sickness was considered a curse from God. The sinners such as tax collectors and prostitutes were categorized as filth to the society. They are being cast away, ignored and even killed. That’s why Jesus accepted the “sinners” for He believed that to cure sinners, one must accept and help them and not condemn.

The Pharisees forgot the real purpose of their authority. They want to be seen in public displaying their authority. They even enjoy privileges and at being called Masters. Jesus condemned such actions. For to be God’s servant, one must be the servant of all; one must be a friend to all people regardless of their state; and, one must be a helper for the needy.

Jesus said to His disciples that they must not call themselves Master, Father or Leader. Let us not treat this literally. I think that Jesus is saying that one cannot be called Master if you are not a servant to all. Master is only an earthly title that’s why you cannot treat yourself above others. It is true that being called Master has privileges, but it doesn’t mean that you won’t treat yourself equal to others. The title has many responsibilities attached to it, but with the privileges attached to it, it is difficult to remain humble.

Anybody can call one’s father “father”. It is a show of respect, affection and relationship between two individuals. It is also considered an earthly title. Let us not forget the Father in Heaven. Let us not forget all the things and gifts that He has given to us. It is true that we are physically separated from Him but in the end of our lives, we are united with Him in Heaven for all eternity.

The lesson that I have learned this week is: It is normal to have titles like Father or Leader. But we must remember God always to teach us that all things are transient and to teach us to stay humble always. We must thank God for giving us distinctions, gifts and blessings and to ask Him to share what we have to others sincerely.

Featured Prayer:

O most holy apostle, Saint Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, people honor and invoke you universally as the patron of hopeless cases, of things almost despaired of. Pray for me, for I am so helpless and alone. Please help to bring me visible and speedy assistance. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and sufferings, particularly (state your request) and that I may praise God with you always.

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