HOLY MONDAY 25 March 2024
Scripture reading: MATTHEW 23:12 “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
In this passage, Jesus challenges the Pharisees and Sadducees with the essence of humility and service. While He is preparing Himself in Jerusalem for the Passover, Jesus is challenged by these religious leaders with their questions and taunts, in an attempt to catch Him making a mistake. But Jesus understands their motives and points them to the true meaning of leadership in the Kingdom of God.
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and Sadducees for their tendency to exalt themselves and oppress others. They place a heavy burden on the people without being willing to serve themselves. Their behaviour is opposite to the principles of the Kingdom of God, where servitude and humility are central. Jesus emphasizes that true greatness is not measured by status, knowledge or following rules, but by the willingness to serve others and lighten their burdens.
In the days that follow this confrontation, Jesus himself lives the greatest example of servant love. Through His life and ultimate sacrifice on the cross, He shows us what it meant to love and serve others. On this Holy Monday, we are challenged to imitate the humility and service of Jesus in our own lives, and thus understand the true meaning of greatness as He taught us.
Prayer: Loving God, on this Holy Monday we thank you for the example of servant love that Jesus gave us. Help us to pursue humility and service in our daily lives, and to love others as You have loved us. Give us the strength to lighten burdens and find true greatness in the service of others. Amen