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Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 23: 1-12

 

I had just spent two hours working in the kitchen to make a fancy, complicated five-course dinner. As my family sat down to eat I couldn’t wait to hear the compliments for the special meal. I wanted them to appreciate the time and energy I had put into creating it and wanted the opportunity to brag about the details and many steps it took to pull it together.

Fifteen minutes later everyone was back in their respective places in the house doing their own thing. Dinner was lovely, the conversation was lively and fun, but nothing was said about my elaborate dinner and no one asked how I made it. I should’ve been thrilled: everyone had their fill of delicious food and obviously liked it, but my ego wanted to be stroked. I wanted to hear the words of awe and get the pat on the back.

Today in the Gospel, Jesus tells us that we are not to be like the Pharisees who do all of the fancy outward things to look like they are righteous. They insist on following the laws of the church, wearing the right clothes, praying aloud for all to hear, having people call them by their prestigious titles.

Instead, Jesus says we are to be humble and act as servants, for they will inherit eternal reward with God. A servant does things for their household without being asked to help their masters, or they do what they are asked without hesitation or grumbling. They perform their duties willingly without seeking compliments or even a Thank You.

Likewise, we are to do for our families, friends and community as Jesus would without seeking accolades. We are to put others’ needs before our own without hesitation. We are to cook and clean for our family without needing a “Thanks, Mom.” For in the end, “the humble will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12), and that is our own reward.

 

Ponder:


When was there a time you longed for a pat on the back and missed the beauty of just watching the enjoyment of your efforts?

 

Pray:

 

Dear Lord, help me to be humble and complete my day without seeking worldly appreciation, knowing You know my heart and appreciate my servant attitude. Amen.

 


“The humble will be exalted,” and that is our own reward. #dailygospel



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Copyright 2021 Colleen Mallette