Memorial of Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church

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.

Jesus teaches us both how to act and how not to act. First, he lays out what not to do by talking about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who do not practice what they preach, do not lift a finger to help others, and seek honor for themselves. Then, Jesus tells us what we should do. Instead of seeking honor for ourselves, we should humble ourselves. Instead of burdening others, we should be servants of all. Instead of speaking one way and acting another, our words and works should complement each other. God is our Father, our Master, and our Lord and we should do everything for Him and not for ourselves or some worldly idol like wealth, honor, etc. If we humble ourselves before God and others, then we shall be exalted.

How can we live lives that are in closer alignment with Christ's teachings? How can we more perfectly practice what we preach? What can we do to foster humble hearts, souls, and minds?

O Lord, we are humbled before you and ask only to be your good and faithful servants.

Amen.