Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29
Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24a
Luke 14:1, 7-14

Humility

The readings for Sunday have a common theme. Sirach tells us to be gentle and humble. We are told in Hebrews that we are part of something bigger than we can see. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that when we welcome everyone – the poor, the sick, and the outcast, we welcome him.

These are great readings that remind us to check our own thoughts and actions. Do we look to impress others or are we quietly doing good and trusting that only God sees it? When we stop trying to get the attention of others or trying to get ahead, we make room for God to be present to us and to lead us.

The words of Jesus at the end of the gospel are very clear.

“When you hold a lunch or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or your wealthy neighbors, in case they may invite you back and you have repayment. Rather, when you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

This message is the opposite of our American way of thinking. It is definitely counter-cultural. It seems to go against the very grain of what we grow up with in our society today. We are told that power, wealth, importance are the goals we should strive for. Sadly, some of our leaders in both church and society often buy into this. Rather than this belief, following and being committed to the words and actions of Jesus is the way to go. It is not easy, but is essential. No one said being a Christian would be easy! 

The words of Jesus in the gospel are really providing advice about how we will find our place in the Kingdom of God. First, we must be humble by recognizing that all people are important in God’s eyes. Second, we are to accept all people regardless of their station in life – the crippled, the lame, the blind. rich or poor. Third, don’t live with a quid pro quo attitude that expects any kind of repayment for what we do for others.

We can use this gospel reading as sound advice on how we are to live as committed Christians and good citizens of our society. Hopefully, we can live in such a way that we use our gifts for others – not looking for any kind of payback except God’s approval, not that of people.

In what ways do you use your time, talent and treasure for others without seeking praise?

How does your understanding of humility make you a good Christian and member of our society?