Simple messages

It is easy to get distracted in today's Gospel (Matthew 23:1-12), with its references to phylacteries, long tassels and calling no man "father", but there are simple messages here:

Respect those in authority,
including our teachers and fathers on earth,
but without committing idolatry:
God is the ultimate
teacher,
father,
and master.

Do not simply proclaim the truth:
live the truth
and give a hand to help others live it as well.

Do what is right in the eyes of God
and not for the praise of men.

Be humble.

Serve.