WHO ARE OUR ROLE MODELS?

XXXI SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME - Matthew 23:1-12

Speaking to his disciples and to the public in general, Jesus warned them about the Pharisees and the Scribes. They were in a position of leadership. By saying that they “occupy the chair of Moses”, Jesus implies a certain usurpation. Indeed, they were not the traditional leaders of the people and may say that they were self-appointed leaders, who put themselves in front of the people and sometimes over them. Why did Jesus warn against them? They presented themselves as role models for the people, but they were fake role models, claiming an authority that they did not have and demanding that people imitate them. 

They do not practice what they preach. They deceive people because they themselves do not believe in what they preach.

 They are hard and extremely demanding on the others, but easily find excuses for themselves. “They tie up heavy burdens and lay them on men’s shoulders, but will they lift a finger to move them? Not they!” (Mt 23:4).

Finally, Jesus accuses them of doing everything to attract attention. They would like to be ranked among the best for their names to appear in the Hall of Fame. They want to be recognised and honoured, they must make it to the top.

We should ask if similar attitudes are not found in the Church among our leaders and among ourselves. Do we live according to what we teach to the others? Are we not ready to condemn the others, finding fault with everything they do, while we do not apply the same rules to us? Are we ready to serve, or do we look for fame, presenting ourselves as the best, and demanding applause from the others?

We may ask as well: who are our role models? Who are the ones who influence us and whom we are ready to listen to? And, if we are in a position of leadership, can we serve of role models to the others? Are we true to ourselves, living by what we teach?

In the first reading, the prophet Malachi denounces the priests and their teaching to the people: “… you, you have strayed from the way; you have caused many to stumble by your teaching. You have destroyed the covenant of Levi, says the Lord of Hosts.” (Mal 2:8).

Let us pray for all those who are in positions of leadership, so that they may be true role models for the people that they serve.