Matthew 23:1-12.    

The Pharisees had lines that they colored in; they had very clear boxes that you were to stay inside. There were laws to be upheld, and if you did not uphold the laws in the way that they thought was best, then you were outside the lines. The Pharisees prided themselves in strictly upholding the laws, and judged those who did not uphold the laws to their standards. The Pharisees and teachers of the law exalted themselves; humility was not something that they led or taught with.

The Pharisees and teachers of the law in Jesus’ day—and, if we are honest, many of us today—would much rather lead and teach from an exalted place, not one of humility. If we had to choose between a seat at the table or the towel and basin to wash feet, we would choose a seat at the table.

Here, Christ is saying that to become great or exalted, you have to be humble. If you exalt yourself, then you will be humbled. Today, look for ways to serve instead of being served, teach out of a place of humility instead of a place of power. Lead and live as Christ did.

Author: Beth Heath