Scripture:
Romans 11:1-2a, 11-12, 25-29
Luke 14:1, 7-11
Reflection:
"…..For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled,but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
Today’s gospel takes place at a dinner banquet to which Jesus had been invited – presumably a banquet that was quite exclusive. He was certainly no stranger to festive get-togethers: the wedding feast at Cana, the parables of the great banquet and the prodigal son.
At this particular gathering, Jesus makes a strong statement about the virtue of humility, as he watches the invited guests scramble for the seat of honor and he gently chides them for their imprudence while teaching them perspective.
Humility accepts who I am, what my gifts are and uses them for the betterment of the community and the world. It’s not about power, position, or prestige. It does not need to control others or situations. It is about recognizing my gifts and putting them at the service of others: not because of the benefits I will receive, but because they were given to me to be shared.
Humility has also been misunderstood to mean that I must not take credit for what I do well. There is a difference between being self-assured and having positive self-esteem, and being arrogant. True humility is knowing that I have certain gifts and using them in such a way that does not judge and put down others, but accepts everyone exactly where they are at on their journey.
In God’s eyes……………. WE ARE ALL GREAT !!
Deacon Brian Clements is on the staff at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center, Sierra Madre, California. B[email protected].