Readings
I - Rom. 11: 1-2, 11-12, 25-29
II - Lk. 14: 1, 7-11
SHUN SHOW OFF
It is quite natural and normal to expect that one is esteemed, honoured and respected. But obsessive craving for consideration, pomp, glory, honour, recognition and respect culminates in causing show off syndrome. The humanity today suffers under the clutches of show off syndrome. Everyone wishes to glitter and glow in the sight of every other person. They are ready and willing to do anything to achieve this height. Fall from heights is a tragedy and on the other hand to be lifted to the heights from the dust is an honour as we read in the Book of Proverbs, “for it is better to be told, “come up here”, than to be put lower in the presence of the prince” (Pro. 25. 6-7). In the Gospel passage today, Jesus, through a parable insists on the great value of humility, the mother of all virtues. Self-knowledge and self-acceptance wraps one with humility freeing from false pride, vain glory and self honour. May the kenosis (self-emptying) of Jesus, renouncing his own divinity and his great humility in stooping down to the level of a slave in washing the feet of his disciples, inspire and enkindle our aspiration to become more humble like our master and his Blessed Mother Mary, the humble handmaid of the Lord whom we fondly remember today. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach me to be humble like you”.
