High King of heaven, to whom belongs honor and authority and power, grant us wisdom to recognize those who abuse their power and care only for themselves, that we would escape the destruction that their pride brings, through Christ our Lord who will judge the nations through your authority and in the Holy Spirit. Amen.
‘As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”‘ – Mark 12:38-40