Reflection
Ruth 2:1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17
Psalm 128:1b-2, 3, 4, 5
Matthew 23:1-12
It is what we do, not what we say, that counts.
In the first reading we hear that word of Ruth’s care for her mother-in law had spread. After the death of her husband, Ruth could have returned to her own land and family, but chose to stay with, and care for, Naomi, and live a lowly state of life. Her reputation went before her within the extended family and Ruth was accorded privileges in the fields of Boaz, a prominent landowner. It was the law to allow the poor and widows to glean after the harvest, so Ruth did not need to ask permission, but she humbled herself and did just that. Boaz, then, went above and beyond what was required, and was gracious to her. In the end, Boaz and Ruth came together, and their son, Obed, would eventually be the grandfather of David. In serving her mother-in-law, Ruth humbled herself, before man and God and, her descendants were destined for kingship and to be ancestors of the Messiah.
In the gospel, we hear Jesus say, “Those who humble themselves will be exalted.” He begins by criticizing the Pharisees for not practicing what they preach, for their pride, their desire for attention and status. He warns the crowd not to imitate their false piety. He lists the titles that carry prestige, Rabbi, Father, and Master, he is saying that his followers should not seek honors but to serve others.
We witness to the Christian way of life in what we are willing to do for each other. St. Augustine said, “We are leaders and servants, we lead when we serve.” Honors are fleeting, acts of goodwill last forever in the book of life.