True Greatness in Humble Service: Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent

"The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, but whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:11-12

Jesus is speaking to the crowds and his disciples in the Gospel reading on Tuesday, of the Second Week of Lent. His message is directed against the religious leaders of his time, the scribes and Pharisees. Earlier in Matthew 23, he criticizes them for seeking respect, importance and admiration, instead of truly serving God and the people.

This is both a warning to leaders and a lesson for all disciples and even for us. Jesus, as the Son of God, came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28). Those who lift themselves up, exalting, in pride will be humbled, while those who serve in humility will be lifted up, exalted, by God.

Reflect

In a world that often celebrates self-promotion and achievement, Jesus’ words challenge us to seek greatness through humility. True fulfillment doesn’t come from being admired but from quietly serving with love. When we put others before ourselves, we reflect Jesus’ humility, not in human praise, but in God’s grace.

Seeking Humility

"If we believe that we are saved by our own value, we have been deceived." St. Ambrose of Optina

St. Ambrose of Optina (1812–1891) was known for his deep wisdom, humility, and guidance in the tradition of the Russian Orthodox Optina Elders. He emphasized that salvation is not something we earn but a gift from God. He taught that pride and relying only on yourself are traps that lead to spiritual deception. True greatness comes from recognizing that we need God and by serving others with humility.

Like Jesus in Matthew 23, St. Ambrose cautioned against seeking honor for oneself. Instead, he encouraged people to trust in God's mercy and embrace humble service as the path to holiness. His teachings call to lower oneself in order to be raised up by God.

Pray

Lord Jesus, nurture in us a spirit of humility. Teach us to serve others unconditionally and recognize that in lowering ourselves, we are lifted up by your grace. May we find true greatness not in being honored but in loving and serving as you did. Amen.