August 31, 2025・22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time ( C)

Sirach 3.17-18,20,28-29・Ps.68.4+5ab,6+7bc,10+11・Hebrew 12.18-19,22-24a・

Luke 14.1,7-14

Today`s readings talk about humility.

The value of humility indeed has long been part of the directive of Christian life. Jesus, from the very beginning of His Galilean ministry, had confronted people, such as the teachers of the law, the Scribes and the Pharisees and the Sadducees alike, about pride and humility. Jesus had been sensitive most often about how people around Him especially those who have position in the society giving more priority and importance on what is external rather that what is inside their hearts. Some were uneasy of His presence and many times intimidated and envious. That is why Jesus had used number of parables as well as real talks to seriously catch the attention of those who are proud and who always sought for honor in the temple and along the streets.

I know less people who dare to speak about humility. It is, maybe, for many, it is not something to talk about with others, and it is humility to just keep silent about it.

The book of Sirach summons us to be gentle and humble: the more humble anyone is, the greater he/she becomes. It is a common belief and somehow a common experience that humility leads to many positive outcomes when it comes to personal growth and even in inter-personal relationships.  Moreover, he/she finds favor with God.

The letter to the Hebrews reminds us that we are a part of something bigger than what we can see. Indeed, we cannot be so proud when we know that there is something bigger than us, and above us, in which, we often forget.  

The invitation in our Gospel reading today is to listen attentively to the teachings of Jesus about humility. He needed to tell a parable to teach about humility upon noticing that visitors in the meal where He was also invited have commonly chosen seats of honor in the table. First, He reminded about the embarrassment one may be dealing with when you seat in a place intended for a more distinguished guest. The other way around, what an enjoyment having the esteem of your companions when after you have chosen the lowest place you were given the seat for a distinguished visitor. So let us learn the experience of being exalted and being humbled:

“For every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

And when it happens that we are the one to sponsor a banquet, Jesus recommends to invite those who have inability to repay such as the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. This is another proposition that each one finds difficult to respond. Say, we organize a meal to enjoy the company of our family, relatives and friends and those others who we think are of the same social status as we are. And as a repayment, they can invite us to dine with them as they take turn in preparing a meal/a party. What a wonderful words Jesus must be telling us that when we welcome the poor, no family and no friends, we welcome a grace that will last forever.

May we realize that humbling places and situations are places and situations where we can meet God, and real joy abounds.