New Testament Eucharistic Readings for Proper 26: Year A
1 Thessalonians 2:9-13: Matthew 23:1-12
“Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach.” (Matthew 23:1 to 3)
As Jesus instructs his followers to follow the teachings of the Pharisees, he cautions them not to observe their behavior for they themselves do not follow their on words.
According to our New Testament the Pharisees and scribes have always sought recognition and glory for themselves. We are told that that give long prayers in various places and wear extravagant garments so as to be noticed and recognized by all. And just as this lesson given by our Lord Jesus is for religious leaders of all stripes, we must remember that we are all religious leaders if we live and walk by our faith.
We tend to follow the examples handed down to us by parents, pastors and peers. Not all examples handed down to us by any of the three ‘P’s are necessarily noble or even decent. If we hear “do not smoke or curse,” and yet we see our leaders do so, we are inclined to do so as well.
Jesus says our leaders know better, they often just don’t do better. We then, are asked to discern the difference between their words and their actions. But this lesson goes to us as well.
You and I are called to be “doers” of our words and not just speakers of words. We are called to lead by example regardless of what title is given to us.
From Douglas R. A. Hare; “This passage is perennially relevant. It is not a mortal sin for clergy to be addressed as ‘Reverend,’ Father,’ Doctor,’ or ‘Pastor.’ The eagerness of laypeople to exalt ordained persons by those honorific titles, however, intensifies the minister’s responsibility to work diligently at breaking down the barrier between clergy and laity.”
Titles aside, God is watching. Clergy or Laity, we are all teachers of the love of Christ; especially parents, and pastors. It would even be good for parents and pastors to observe who the peers of our little ones are.
Please keep up your thoughts and prayers and hopes for Ukraine, Russia, Israel and our schools.
As we listen to what the Spirit of God is saying to us, let us live to love and serve, and to teach others to love and serve, while pondering anew what the Almighty can do. John
onewhoponders 