Gospel: Luke 14:1, 7-14
The wisdom of Sirach has it right in the first reading today! “My child, conduct your affairs with humility, and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts.”
Most of us have “Gift-Givers” in our lives, especially those who give with ‘no strings attached’! They let us feel grateful, but never obliged or beholden. These friends know and love us for who we are rather than for what we have or do. They show us the freedom, joy, and truth of humility.
A heart of humility frees me to be true to God, others, and myself: no need to pretend to be something, or someone more or less than I am. Being humble helps me see that my dignity and responsibility is rooted in being honestly who I am, God’s child. Since God has made me His own, I am called to reflect Him and His ways.
At times, this is no easy task, given the people in my life, but Jesus shows Sirach’s wisdom made practical in today’s Gospel. He suggests a way to freely interact in truth and humility with a joy that lasts: It’s a big deal to be invited to a lavish banquet. In the midst of greetings and introductions, there may lie the temptation to believe that I am more important than I actually am! This led some guests in this story to learn an uncomfortable lesson in humility! They chose a place of honor that was reserved for one more distinguished. Jesus asks, what is it within that resists humbly stepping away from the spotlight?
Who I am is more important than where I sit. As God’s child, I can be ‘at home’ anywhere at the table! When it’s my turn to host, Jesus insists that humility should influence my invitations. He cautions me to be alert for selfish motives: Those whom I invite should not be those who can repay me, but those who cannot! Also, Jesus examines external generosity: How do I invite the poor, the sick, those handicapped: with condescension or reverence? Why do I invite? To display my finesse or superiority, or to make steps toward building communion in community? The latter is harder but lies at the threshold of joy!
A further nudge of grace from Christ’s “Banquet Story”: can I see that the true dignity and value of others, is rooted in the truth that they are God’s children, just as I am?
Is it possible, that if given a chance, the poor will reciprocate in deeper, truer ways than I can even imagine, because of how they face their sufferings? Circumstances in their lives have taught them humility. Do I allow my life circumstances to keep me humble?
When living in truth and humility, our dignity is secure: belonging to God is what really matters! And our repayment will be realized at the “resurrection of the righteous”!
Sister Mary Louise Swift, CSFN
