Word to the Wise
Saturday, October 31, 2009 - Saturday in the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
[Romans 11:1-2a, 11-12, 25-29 and Luke 14:1, 7-11]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. [Gospel of Luke]
Years ago, a friend of mine told me that there were two things a congregation expected of me: short homilies and recognition! The desire for recognition runs deep. It translates to "status" and that meant in Jesus' day (as today at banquets and bill signings at the White House) where one sat or was placed! It translates, for me, into an important task at the end of a retreat or parish mission - remembering to thank all the people who helped with the event. I live in terror of forgetting to "recognize" one of the many humble folks who help an event to be successful. The image given by Jesus is a reminder to us about our need for recognition and status. Do we really know that need? Do we also forget to "recognize" those who deserve our thanks? Even if we don't want to sit at the "head table," do we want the "emcee" to thank us for how we arranged the head table? This could go on and on in terms of banquets, but the picture is clear enough. We have to be aware of this need in ourselves if we plan to have any "exaltation" from God! AMEN
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