The Second Tuesday of Lent

As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’ You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

In today’s gospel, Jesus reminds us we are following him not because we want to exalt ourselves, but to humble ourselves as God's servants. We can claim whatever authority or titles we wish, but in the end God is the only true authority. It is from Him that all the lesser authorities flow. He is the only Teacher we need to heed. He is the only Father we should seek to please.  He is the only Master we are called to serve. He gives us all we need to become His good and faithful followers. This is why it is so important to live our lives as servants of God and His children because it is the best way for us to imitate the loving service God has given us.

Do we listen to the teachings of Christ and the inspirations of the Holy Spirit? Do we seek the approval and protection of our Heavenly Father? Do we accept Jesus Christ as our king and seek to serve Him and all God's children to the best of our abilities?

O Lord, show us how to be good and faithful servants.

Amen.