Thoughts for the Day

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practise what they teach.....

You are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father—the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Version)

Thoughts

This passage from Matthew's Gospel starts with Jesus attacking the Scribes and Pharisees. He speaks of 'Moses' seat', a place from which the leaders of the congregation would sit and teach with authority. Such a seat would have existed in the Temple in Jerusalem, and might well have been copied in local synagogues as well. We must remember that God appointed Judges to rule over Israel early in their history, and the Moses' seat was a place of judgement. Jesus explicitly states to those listening to him that they should do what their leaders teach them, but should not follow their example, because these men do not practice what they preach.

I left school at fifteen, and didn't do my first O level exam until I was in my middle twenties. I then kept on going, travelling from Norfolk to Sussex University each week, and later from Suffolk to London to do my second degree. Learning has been my absolute delight, whatever the subject, but particularly about anything to do with my faith, and I hope to continue studying until the end of my life, God willing!

Jesus says we are to be students, learning from Him the great Instructor! This Lent may we do some more learning about our faith, through books, or on-line? Don't let the busyness of life get in the way, set aside a few hours to learn more about your faith!

Lord Jesus Christ,
You are our teacher,
and continue to teach us
throughour our life
if we are willing to listen.
Help us to learn more this Lent
about You and our
Heavenly Father,
and Your plans for us.
Amen.