In the Gospel reading, there are three salient points that we could reflect on.

1. Walk the talk – “Do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice.”(Mt 23:3). Our actions speak louder than our words.
2. Maze haze attitude – “They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues”. (Mt 23:6) The danger of falling into a trap of popularity, power, fortune and other forms of achievements. When we are blinded/clouded by praises, we may lose our sense of identity and become self-righteous.
3. Pride tempts us to put ourselves above others. – “You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers.” (Mt 23:8) Jesus wanted to warn both his disciples and the religious leaders about the temptation to seek honors and titles that draw attention to ourselves in place of God. Let us serve people with humility and sincerity rather than with pride and self-promotion.

PRAYER: Abba Father, may I have the humility to receive instruction and to follow you as I accept the dignity that you give me. Amen.