Jesus warns against hypocrisy of religious leaders

Today is Tuesday, March 18, 2025, and we are in the Second Week of Lent. The Gospel reading comes from the book of Saint Matthew. In this passage, Jesus addresses both the crowds and his disciples. He speaks about the scribes and Pharisees, who teach the law but do not practice what they preach. He advises people to follow their teachings but warns them not to imitate their behavior. Jesus mentions how these leaders place heavy burdens on others but refuse to help carry them. They seek attention through their actions, wanting to be noticed and honored in public settings. He instructs the people not to call themselves “Rabbi” or “Master,” since they all have one true teacher and one Father in heaven. Jesus emphasizes that true greatness comes from serving others. He concludes by saying that those who lift themselves up will be brought down, while those who humble themselves will be raised up.