Reflection for March 3 Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent: Matthew 23:1-12

Gospel: Matthew 23:1-12

Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice.   

They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’   

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.”

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Reflection:

Should we aspire to greatness in our service to Jesus and our fellowmen?

If greatness means recognition, applause, or position, then perhaps we need to examine our hearts. For the moment we begin to seek greatness for ourselves, we risk no longer serving Jesus and our fellowmen in the way He desires. Instead of glorifying God, we may unknowingly be feeding our own egos and advancing our personal agendas.

How subtle this temptation can be. Even as we serve in the Church, volunteer our time, or dedicate ourselves to noble causes, our hearts can quietly drift toward self-promotion rather than self-giving. Even in public service, we see how easily promises of humble leadership can fade once power is gained. And if we are honest, we must admit that this struggle is not only “out there” in others—it is also within us.

Why do we offer our time, our talents, and our energy? Is it purely out of love for God and for others? Or do we secretly hope to be noticed, appreciated, or praised? These are not easy questions, but they are necessary if we truly desire to grow in authentic servanthood.

Jesus teaches us that true service requires self-forgetfulness. He calls us to set aside our pride, to let go of our need for recognition, and to serve quietly and faithfully. We are invited to walk our talk without complaining, to do what we are called to do even when no one sees, and to continue loving even when no one applauds. This is the heart of genuine servanthood.

Let us not be anxious if we are overlooked or unrecognized for the good we do. God is not sleeping. He sees every hidden sacrifice, every silent act of kindness, every humble offering of our time and strength. Nothing done out of love for Him is ever wasted.

As we reflect on our service, let us gently ask ourselves: Are we truly serving for God’s glory and the good of others, or are we still seeking a throne when we are called to carry a towel?

May we have the courage to choose humility, to embrace hidden service, and to allow Jesus to purify our intentions—so that in everything we do, it is truly Him whom we serve.-Marino J. Dasmarinas