None of us like to be criticized. The next couple readings are going to focus on Jesus’ criticism of the religious leaders he is encountering. It would be easy to lump all Pharisees into one pot and assume they are all corrupt or misled. That would be devastating to Judaism and to the Jewish people. So when we read Jesus’ words, we need to remember he is calling out what he sees. Also, this is Matthew’s account, his remembrance of Jesus’ words.
How do you handle criticism? It can hurt. In most cases it’s helpful to consider the source. Do you have a level of trust already built up with the person pointing out your faults? We all have “haters”, too. You know those people who are never happy, who want to project their own failures onto you. Who like to dwell in the negative. Even still, it can sting a little to hear that you aren’t appreciated, or that something you’ve done or said is flat out wrong.
I have to say if Jesus was criticizing me, I would take notice. I would immediately change my ways. Yet, the Bible is full of examples where Jesus is telling us all how we can live our lives. If I were to take a magnifying glass to my own life, and then apply the Biblical teachings I know are important, what would I see? I’d see a broken sinner in need of a Savior. I’d see all sorts of things that could be changed. I’d be expecting criticism, too.
When we are judged by another human being, we tend to go into defense mode. We aren’t always the most welcoming to this type of message. Especially if it is done with hostility or an air of superiority. You may recall a time a boss made you feel about an inch tall, or maybe it was a parent or a teacher. When we respect someone who disapproves of us or our behavior, we can feel belittled and small, but we can also embrace it and learn from it.
What we see from Jesus is frustration. He is still telling the people they should listen to the religious leaders. They should just be careful not to follow what they “do.” Jesus has seen how the religious leaders have taken advantage of their position of authority. I’m sure we’ve all experienced that, too. Power has a way of going to our heads if we are not careful.
This first section of Jesus’ rant focuses on that behavior of superiority. Yes, there should be some distinction of authority, but Jesus describes what appears to be those taking advantage of their position. As a church leader for many years, I know I struggled to have enough authority. Leadership skills were not necessarily the first of my spiritual gifts. Yet, I felt called to lead. Conversely, David struggled with having to wear a robe, feeling like that distinction separated him from the people he was serving.
Jesus warns us of using “titles” that set us apart. There is only one “Teacher (Rabbi)” – Jesus the Messiah and one “Father” – God. That’s a new one to wrestle with, too. Think of the roles here. We all share the same Father as we are children of God. There is only one perfect teacher whom we can trust, Jesus. Jesus is the truth, the way, and the life. Nobody can come to the Father except through him.
Let’s pray. Lord, help me to see clearly what you intend for me to get out of this reading today. I do trust you as the Lord of my life, my great Teacher, and the Father who loves me without measure. Help me to be the woman you want me to be. May my life reflect you in all I say and do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
