Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 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.”

Humility is your path

1) They watched Him carefully. The way you observe someone can be either positive or negative. The people who were troubled by Jesus scrutinized everything He said and did, hoping to find something they could use against Him. In life, some people won’t like us and will watch closely, waiting for us to make a mistake. But let’s follow Jesus’ example by being open, sincere, and committed to living in truth. We shouldn’t go around looking for reasons to tear others down or condemn them. After all, you and I are sinners too.

2. Seeking a place of honor. How many of us long for recognition or a position of importance? We shouldn’t chase honors. It’s sad to see Christians who are more concerned with status than with holiness or service. Some want to lead a church group or be seen distributing Communion at Mass. Some priests aspire only to become bishops—or even pope—and long to be called monsignor. Some nuns dream of becoming Mother Superior or feel discouraged if they aren’t chosen to guide novices. That isn’t Christian; it’s selfish. Our calling is to serve without seeking attention. We must entrust ourselves to God and quietly do good for others.

3. Take the lowest place. God reminds us that we’re called to serve as we journey through life, always mindful that our true treasure is in heaven. We should work to help others reach heaven and to do good. Many people may never know about the good you do, but your Father in heaven does. With humility, anything is possible, and those who are humble will receive the true place of honor in heaven.

Remember something good is on the way! 

God bless you and protect you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.