4 November, 2023 | Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop

Gospel Lk 14:1, 7-11

Keep Life Simple - the Jesus way?

Gospel Text:

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."

Reflections:

In todays’ world  individuals seek fame, fortune, power and status. Anyone who has achieved these have high esteem and they are looked upon as icons and idols. But Jesus teaches just the opposite in the gospel of today. He tells us to choose what is unassuming, insignificant, low key and something which is out of limelight.  He showed it with his own life by choosing what is noble and choosing simplicity as his life style. Today Jesus is encouraging us to be content with what is seemingly lowly and least. For it is in these we find such pure joy and heart’s content. 

Activity: 

Show respect regardless of people’s social status. Treat everyone with kindness and respect.