Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: March 3,2026

Date: Tuesday of the 2^nd Week of Lent

Scripture Text:   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."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

In today’s gospel text, Jesus condemns the hypocrisy of religious figures who did everything for self-enrichment rather than authentic and humble love of the LORD and one another.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

What motivates me to act? Why do I do what I do? Is love my guiding principle?

Praying:

LORD,  Almighty Father, You created us and call us as your daughters and sons to life created and sustained through love. Send your Spirit to guide us, to strip us of our human arrogance and clothe us in authentic humility, so that we might serve You and one another for love of You and one another as your only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, showed us to be the life we are called to live. Grant this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.