“Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes
Mark 12:38
and accept greetings in the marketplaces.”
Reflection
Jesus tells the crowds to beware of the scribes, who like to be treated honorably, but will receive a severe condemnation. He then observes how people put money into the treasury, the rich putting in large sums and a poor widow only putting in a little. Yet Jesus tells his disciples that the poor widow gave her entire livelihood because she contributed all she had.
The scribes clearly liked to flaunt their knowledge and power in front of others. They enjoyed being greeted by people, having seats of honor, and dining at others’ houses. Their pride and greed are things we should not emulate. Yet many of us do enjoy when we are honored in some way or given the best of something.
Pride is a sneaky sin – you might think you deserve a particular thing over another person, you might look down at someone else because you have more than they do. Over time, our pride can build up and we forget that Jesus tells us to be meek and humble of heart. While pride might make you feel good momentarily, humility is what brings us to holiness.
How is Christ calling to you be more humble? Where is pride creeping in during your daily life? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the root of this sin and give you perseverance to work towards constant humility.
Saint of the Day
St. Norbert: ca. 1080 – 1134
| “Let us adore Christ with clean hands and pure hearts, that we may serve Him with joy.” St. Norbert |
The Healing Word 