Matthew 23:1-12

New International Version (NIV)

23 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: 2 “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 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. 4 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.

5 “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries[a] wide and the tassels on their garments long; 6 they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; 7 they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.

8 “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.9 And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven.10 Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah. 11 The greatest among you will be your servant. 12 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Closing Prayer: 

God in heaven and in my life, 
guide me and protect me. 
I so often believe I can save myself 
and I always end in failure. 
Lead me with your love away from harm 
and guide me on the right path. 
May your Spirit inspire the Church 
and make us an instrument of your love and guidance. 
Thank you for your care for me.

May the Lord bless us, 
protect us from all evil 
and bring us to everlasting life. 
Amen.