A WORD FOR TODAY 20 AUGUST 2022

*A WORD FOR TODAY*

*THERE IS A BEGINNING TO EVERY TRUE GREATNESS*

_"Neither be called masters, for you have one master, the Christ. He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."(Matthew 23:10-11)_

_*The words of Jesus in the gospel reading of today are very touching and inspiring to a heart that seeks to grow in the spirit and who wants to follow the path that leads to life and not disaster.*_

_Jesus warns His disciples not to emulate the attitude and behaviour of the Scribes and the Pharisees which is full of pride and arrogance. They teach a diffetent thing to their followers, but they do another thing. They lay a huge burden on people's shoulders, but they cannot even lift the same with their finger._

_*They love honour and prestige and want the best of the seat in the synagogue and to be greeted auspiciously in the market places. Their life is all about making a show and playing to the gallery, they blow their ego and sound their trumpet and always want to be praised and honoured by all. They make sure that whatever they do is seen by men and attract praise from them.*_

_This is their conception of true greatness, but that is not what it means in the sight of Jesus. True greatness begins with humility and service. The one who exalts is God and if we want to be great like Jesus we must start with humility and climb the ladder of greatness which comes with different tests and challenges as we ascend through quality sevice to others._

_*Followers of Jesus must strive everyday to be like Jesus in humility, obedience and faithfulness. He emptied Himself and took the form of a servant in order to show us the way that leads to the Father. (Philippians 2:6-11) Lead by example and practise what you preach and you will be like Jesus.*_

_Every true greatness has a beginning. You may start small, but you will be great with *patience,* *perseverance* and *persistence.* push yourself gradually but positively to the right path and you will be great someday. Endure the suffering that comes with it, apply discipline in your lifestyle, be humble in words and deeds and always strive to be like Jesus at all times and your time of lifting up and exaltation will definitely come._

_*Good morning dearest one. Smile😊as you do your work and do have a great day. May Jesus give you the grace to stay humble always as you journey in life. Amen. And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.*_

*Meditation:* Ezekiel 43:1-7/Psalm 85:9-14/Matthew 23:1-12

*Watch-Word:* He who is greatest among you shall be your servant.

*Stay humble in words and deeds and you will be exalted by God at the appointed time.*

(Saturday of the twentieth week in the ordinary time. Year II. Memorial of St. Bernard)

*© Rev. Fr. Augustine Eleke*