READING: Exodus 26:1-28:14, Matthew 22:34-23:12
Ouch.
Sometimes the Word wounds. It does so in a loving way, but it still hurts.
Today, I read of the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, and I can’t help but compare myself as a religious leader. They didn’t practice what they preached; what they said may have been okay at times, but they didn’t follow their own teachings. I pray that’s not the case overall with me, though I admit I don’t always live up to the level of expectation I might place on others. They did what they did “to be seen by others” (Matt. 23:5), and I genuinely hope that’s not my motive for serving God.
But, I then read these words, and my heart feels a bit trampled upon: “They love the place of honor at banquets, the front seats in the synagogues, greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by people” (Matt. 23:6-7). I want my heart to be nowhere near the Pharisees’, but I would be deceiving myself if I didn’t admit some things. Sometimes I do like to be in the best seats when I’m speaking somewhere. I don’t mind when others call me by my title in addition to my name. It doesn’t happen often, but I do enjoy it when people recognize me. I may speak words of humility, but my ego lurks somewhere nearby.
That’s why Jesus’ words wound me today. I need to hear them . . . and repent.
PRAYER: “Lord, make me want to live for only Your approval. Forgive me for being arrogant.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Exodus 28:15-29:46, Matthew 23:13-39
