Of Titles and Fineries

Gospel:  Matthew 23: 1-12

What Jesus has to say about titles, honors, and fineries of religious leaders is addressed to his disciples, not to those in religious authority.  The latter group would not listen to such criticism.  There is hope that Jesus' followers themselves might heed these words, but as anyone with functioning sensory systems knows that sadly these words of Jesus will go unheeded throughout history to our own times and places here and now.  

Everyday we see clergy seeking political power and influence in seats of privilege.  We hear clerics state how humbled they are to be invited to be guest preacher at a church whilst broadcasting such humility far and wide on social media.  The endless shopping for religious garb and fineries that keep up with the titles of privilege and power sought by priest and pastor carries on as if these words of Jesus were never spoken at all.  

Meanwhile, Jesus went about wearing simple garb healing people of their infirmities, freeing them from the demons that plague them, and feeding them at table.  No media train, no self-promotion, and in fact a running from crowds and attention highlight Jesus' work in the world.  That the words and example of Jesus have little actual impact on the Christian Church is all too obvious and scandalous.  But his life and words are still there for those who seek the authentic way of religion.