As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and 

be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and 

have the most important seats in the synagogues and 

the places of honour at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. 

These men will be punished most severely.” (Mark 12: 38-40)

Mark 12: 38-44

Yesterday’s Gospel text contains two short stories about wealth. The issues were dealt with in challenging ways then and still are today.

Jesus denounces and condemns the scribes. In Mark’s estimation, 

they thought they were more important than everyone else: self-important, arrogant and self-aggrandising. 

In their fancy robes, prime seats in the synagogues, places of honour at important events and insistence on being first, the scribes have lost sight of God’s demands. This text refers to how the scribes “devour the houses of widows”. The same widows who need community support because of their devotion to God. (Deut 14:28-29)

So, where is the relevance today, especially as it seems Jesus’ judgment of the scribes is based on their inner desires and motivations?

Perhaps the invitation today is to examine our motives and desires. How do we see ourselves in relation to others?

Reflections by Gillian Hugo

Our Lord and Father,
Help us to be humble before you and others. Help us notice when we may think we are better than others. Help us guard against motives and desires that do not follow your will.
Amen.

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