Gospel MK 12:38-44
In the course of his teaching Jesus said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext, recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation.”
He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, “Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.”
REFLECTION:
“Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets.”
Have you ever thought of yourself as a scribe? The scribes in Jesus’s time were men of authority who studied, copied and interpreted the holy scriptures. The Jews looked upon them with great respect and honored them. They also were authorities in law abiding matters and the Jewish traditions. Most of us have never held a job like the scribes, but have been given the chance to have some authority or responsibility for a job or family member. Therefore, we may have experienced how the position can feed self-love and pride.
The scribes appeared to enjoy their own presence as they lived their lives amongst the faithful. As written, they showed no compassion for the widowed and needy. Their lack of repentance and humility resulted in a prideful manner of not being concerned with other’s needs.
In searching ourselves, have we spent some time during the pandemic restrictions to check on our own pride? Our social lives have been disrupted and jobs are now accomplished through new means. These changes make it easier to look back at our former ways where pride can dwell.
Most of us have a little “scribe” inside. We should identify it and ask for forgiveness, allowing Jesus to help us choose humility. Can we imitate the poor widow and give all that we have to the Lord? So that, only He will notice and be honored.
Comments