GOD’S WORD FOR THE DAY (based on Catholic Liturgical Readings)
DATE: 28TH AUGUST 2016
22ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
1ST READING: Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29
PSALM: Psalm 68:4-7, 10-11
2ND READING: Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24
GOSPEL: Luke 14:1, 7-14
THEME: THE POWER OF HUMILITY
A humble person is a commander of an army in plain clothes. He (she) may appear ordinary but carries with him (her) great power. Humble people do not say much about themselves but much is said and done because of them.
In our Gospel text for today, Jesus exhorts us to embrace the virtue of humility. He says, “For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Lk 14:11). This exhortation receives additional impetus in our First Reading, “The greater you are, the more you must humble yourself; so you will find favor in the sight of the Lord” (Sir 3:18).
The word humility has a connection with the Latin word “humus”, i.e. the earth which is beneath us. A humble person is one who is down to earth and has a modest estimate of his/her own worth. Consequently, humble people have no difficulty associating with lowly people and the marginalised. Understandably, Jesus says in the Gospel text, “When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous” (Lk. 14:13-14).
I came across these three striking characteristic features of humble people:
1. They submit to God and legitimate authority
2. They are able to recognize virtues and talents that others possess and give honour where honour is due.
3. They recognize the limits of their own ability or authority and do not pretend to reach what is beyond their grasp.
Heaven is the home of humble people and those who aspire to make it must go through the door of humility.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, heal me of the sickness of pride and clothe me with the garment of humility. Amen
Andrews Obeng, svd
DIVINE WORD MISSIONARIES
BIBLICAL PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Ghana Province)