Humble myself, so that God will be honored!

Matthew 23:6,7

6And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,

7And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.

I remember a story of a family who went to their grandparent's house for dinner. After watching the man bow his head and speak in a soft voice, the girl asked her parents, "What did Mr. Bryan say to his plate?" Jesus asked a similar question concerning the leaders of his day. They spoke not prayers to God, but empty words trying to impress others and trying to appear successful.

Jesus said in our scripture reading today, "And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi." The religious leaders seemed to be more concerned about appearing to be successful than serving God's people.

I read once about James Moore, a minister, who was invited to participate in a "Career Day on Campus." He was to be part of a panel discussion. Panelists were to discuss, "How Faith Influences Your Choice of a Career." First, panelists were asked to introduce themselves and mention their particular vocations. It was all rather routine. One woman gave her name and said, "I'm an attorney." A man gave his name and said, "I'm in business and I own a computer company." A woman gave her name and said, "I'm in real estate." When it was Moore's turn he said, "I'm a minister." The person seated next to him was a doctor. The doctor's statement changed that mundane situation into a special and sacred moment.

He said, "We are here today to talk about vocation." He told them that the word vocation meant "calling." "Well," the doctor told them, "my calling is to be a Christian and one way to do that is through the practice of medicine."

James Moore reflected afterwards, the doctor's life was a success, but his priority was service. Jesus said,  "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted" (Luke14:11)

Dear Father God, humble me, so that you will be honored. Amen.