He that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
– Matthew 23:11 –

A young manager, fresh from her promotion, arrives at the office expecting deference. She finds her team overwhelmed and overworked. For a week, she sets aside her title—answering phones, covering lunches, and fixing workflow problems. When a junior employee asks why she’s “doing grunt work,” she smiles: “How can I lead where I haven’t served?”

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Jesus overturns worldly ideas of leadership (vv. 6–8), showing that true greatness is measured not by status, titles, or recognition, but by humble service (v. 11). The manager who gained her team’s trust through quiet, attentive help, and Ruth, who faithfully laboured in Boaz’s fields despite being a foreign widow (Ruth 2:7), reveal this principle: influence grows when we prioritise others over ourselves. Too often we confuse position with power, thinking authority alone inspires hearts. Yet Christ, “who did not consider equality with God something to be exploited” (Philippians 2:6), teaches that lasting transformation begins when we step down to lift others up. Daily, God calls us to lead through service, noticing hidden needs and responding with compassion. True greatness is serving others—look for someone today to lift and bless.

Today’s Devotional – 23 Aug 2025

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A Journey of Reflection and Action

• Journal about a time when you experienced servant leadership.
• Meditate on Matthew 23:11 and Philippians 2:6, asking God to shape your heart like Christ’s.
• Share an act of humble service with a friend or colleague this week.
• Discuss in a small group how leadership through service has influenced your faith journey.

Join Us in Prayer

Lord Jesus, You showed us that true greatness is found in serving others. Teach us to notice hidden needs and to respond with humility and compassion. May our lives reflect Your servant heart, lifting and blessing those around us. Amen.

Next Step on Your Journey
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Scripture Footnote & Further Reading
Adapted from the Catholic Daily Reading – 23 August 2025.

• First Reading: Ruth 2:1–3, 8–11; 4:13–17
• Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 128:1–5
• Second Reading: (if applicable in local cycle)
• Alleluia: John 15:9, 5
• Gospel: Matthew 23:1–12