“Actions speak louder than words.” This phrase is a caution for the scribes and Pharisees in today’s Gospel. While they preached, gave instruction, and told others what to do, they did not listen to the intent of God’s laws. In our world today, power is highly sought after, whether in the workplace, relationships, or in the community. But, as Spiderman says, “with great power comes great responsibility.” The scribes and Pharisees did not use their power and influence as they should.
All of us have influence in our lives, and there are people watching our actions whether we realize it or not. In St. Ignatius’s First Principle and Foundation, he reminds us of the need to be indifferent to honor or dishonor. Admittedly, this can be difficult, but Jesus tells us that “whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” How can you let your actions show that you are humble before God?
—The Jesuit Prayer team