Do as I say, not as I do

is something I have been heard to say to my sons.  In other words, it’s not always how I act that is right, but the things I say when I’ve got my sensible head on.  What I truly believe is what should be heeded, not some of the stupid things I do.

This is very much Jesus concern with the Pharisees and the Teachers of the Law.  For what they taught did not tie up with how they behaved.  What they said was right, for they quoted God’s Law, but they didn’t live it out in their own lives.

They placed heavy burdens on people, and did nothing to help them carry them;

everywhere they went, they wanted to be seen, and treated as important;

they wanted to be honoured and treated with respect;

but none of this fitted in with the laws that they taught – the laws of a God who all he asked of people was to love.

And so Jesus warns the crowd, not to do as the Pharisees and Teachers do.  Instead they are to do as Jesus does – to be humble and a servant of others.  For in that is true greatness found – not in momentary worldly praise and prestige.

Jesus way was not to see what he could take – but to give.  That was not just the way he taught, but the way he lived.

Do we practice what we preach?  Or is it do as I say, but not as I do?

Do we live as servants, or as those who want to be served?

Lord

may my actions

match my words,

may my words

match my beliefs;

may my beliefs

match your teaching

and your way of living.

May I live to serve

both you

and those whose lives I touch