Titus 2:1-8, 11-14; Psalm 36; Luke 17:7-10
Humility and Self-control
“We are worthless slaves; we have only done what we ought to have done!” People frequently take actions in an effort to gain attention or receive appreciation from others. Such people are motivated by human rewards and awards. A true Christian should express sincere humility irrespective of recognition. His or her actions should be motivated by eternal glory. The very moment we seek and desire earthly relevance we reduce our eternal chances.
Similarly, in Titus 2:1-8, Paul exhorts us to do good for the sake of the gospel. This is an intrinsic chRcter of Paul’s apostolic mission. In 1 Cor.9:22-23, he explains his motives saying “to the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings.” Beloved, what motivates our actions? Why are we so passionate about the gospel? Are we active in pursuit of offices and positions or eternal life?
Precisely because of this, Paul in the first reading exhorts the older men, younger women and young men to exercise self-control. That is, we should exercise restraint over our impulses, emotions, desires and ambitions. “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls” (Prov 25:28). There is never a good life without self control.
LET US PRAY
Almighty Father, increase our faith, teach us to be humble and selfless.
