In the Gospel of today and in our reading from Sirach, we hear of how to act at a party, when Jesus presents his own version of table manners. Both men from the Old and New Testament counsel us to act with humility. Sirach want us to find favor with God. Jesus imagines a wedding banquet where the host invites the person who took the lowest seat to move up to a higher position.

Humility is a most misunderstood virtue, and we would prefer to leave it to religious order people. The word humility comes from the Latin word “humus” meaning earth. It truly means someone who has their feet on the ground and knows who they are — and where they stand in relation to God and others.

The challenge to get ahead of the next guy, as we live in such a competitive world, is our normal mode of action. There is nothing wrong with trying to be better or best. But we need not always be first. We are called to have time for prayer and God, to listen, learn and love others. The problem of pride vs humility is a daily issue for most of us. To accept imperfection and realize we will never be superman or superwoman is reality and humility at work.

One of our former presidents visited a nursing home on a campaign tour. Going from person to person, some seemed unimpressed that they were talking to the president.

So, the president asked, “Do you all know who I am?”

One man answered him, “No. but if you ask the nurse at the desk, she’ll be able to tell you.”

Jesus wants us to know we can not even exclude the outcasts of society from our banquets. God’s kingdom is inclusive, and all are invited. The poor, crippled, lame and blind become associated as equal guests to all, and we will find them sitting next to Christ Himself.

Just being at Mass is humility, as we all become one in Christ through the Eucharist and are challenged to go and leave Mass working and caring for all with peace. May we move ahead with humility and love and not worry about pride and our place at table. Know and accept that all are one in this banquet called Mass.

Thank you to all who have welcomed me through the 25 plus years here at St. Anthony’s, now St. Louis de Montfort.

Your love, support, notes, gifts and gratitude are all appreciated. Keep joy alive, keep me in your prayers.

If no one in the area picks up the challenge of these weekly articles, I will start again in Lent 2023.