SATURDAY OF THE TWENTIETH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME, AUGUST 23, 2025

MASS READINGS

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."

REFLECTION

“The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

We are shocked to see the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees, as if we have never been a hypocrite. We have seen police drive faster than the speed limit, we have seen rich people call a special press coverage when they "humbly" donate to a good cause. Parents with influence get favor for their children if there is a legal problem. The Priesthood is God's but when a priest is caught in sin, we find an excuse to leave the Church or to leave God's presence.

Because hypocrites go against the law, against the norm, or set bad example does not mean that we have permission to break the law or do as they do. We acknowledge their authority but condemn their failure to live according to what they teach.

The Pharisees and the scribes burdened others without lifting a finger to help, and they craved honor, titles, and places of prestige. Jesus instead calls His followers to humility: “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

The life of St. Rita of Cascia shines as a beautiful example of this Gospel truth. She endured many trials—an arranged marriage to a violent husband, the tragic loss of her sons, and the pain of being initially rejected from the convent. Yet, Rita did not seek status, recognition, or revenge. Instead, she chose the hidden path of humility and reconciliation. She forgave those who harmed her family, sought peace in the face of injustice, and embraced suffering with patience and trust in God.

Just as Jesus warns against seeking places of honor, Rita lived a life emptied of self-glory. Her true greatness was revealed not in titles or authority but in her quiet, steadfast love and her deep union with Christ crucified. When she received the wound of a thorn from Christ’s crown on her forehead, it symbolized her total identification with His humility and suffering.

The Gospel and St. Rita together remind us that holiness is not about outward displays of piety or authority, but about humble service, forgiveness, and fidelity to God’s will. Where the Pharisees sought to be seen, Rita sought only to love.

May we learn to lay aside pride, to bear our crosses with patience, and to find our greatness not in being served, but in serving others with the heart of Christ.

God Bless You