Gospel Reading: Lk 14:1, 7-11
On a sabbath Jesus went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully.
He told a parable to those who had been invited, noticing how they were choosing the places of honor at the table.
“When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor. A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him, and the host who invited both of you may approach you and say, ‘Give your place to this man,’ and then you would proceed with embarrassment to take the lowest place. Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place so that when the host comes to you he may say, ‘My friend, move up to a higher position.’ Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
REFLECTION
Take the lowest place
Jesus’ advice in a form of parable can be taken at face value: it is a wise social tip to avoid being embarrassed. Indeed, at times we see how some people are shamed when they are told to “go down” after having presumptuously occupied the “higher” place.
We often want to be singled out and given places of honor. But Jesus is telling us that humbling oneself is really the best way to be exalted. And we know this is very true from experience. One may not be recognized in the eyes of people by doing so, but certainly in the eyes of God one is raised high.
Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending.
You plan a tower that will pierce the clouds?
Lay first the foundation of humility” (St. Augustine).
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SOURCE: “365 Days with the Lord,” ST PAULS, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 895-9701; Fax 895-7328; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.
