Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others. “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Such a fascinating passage where Jesus steers his disciples to a different path for greatness than any the world offers. So much in this world is based on how something looks or sounds on the outside.

Jesus casts aside this superficial pureness measurement. Instead he focuses on humility in service and active belief. As his disciples we are not to look for impressive titles or special privileges. Instead, we are to look for ways to serve God by being humble and available to help.

Instead of looking for the world’s attention work for God and his approval.

Lord, thank you for this passage that clearly outlines a better path to greatness in life. Help me to be a willing servant of all.