For every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 14:11
At many family dinner gatherings, we have a certain place at the table. Mom sits across from dad, and the kids are flanked on either side. At large gatherings like Thanksgiving, sometimes the table is too small for all the guests. This is when the jockeying for position takes place. Usually the host or hostess will assign places depending on ability to move around the table, proximity to the kitchen and even age. There might even be a kids table in one area, and the grown-ups in the other. Sometimes there's a friend or guest, so they might sit with the host.
Many of the great parables and stories take place around the table or during dining. Sunday's gospel from Saint Luke has one such story. Jesus reflects on proper etiquette for hosting a dinner and having guests sit at the table. Those that have great importance typically sit with the host. But he gives a practical tip. He says that when we go to the dinner, make it a point to sit at a distance and see if the host calls you to a place of prominence. Don't assume that you'll get a good spot, because he reminds us that it's better to be humble than arrogant. The key is to be invited rather than to assume a particular position. At the great heavenly banquet, you want to make sure you are invited or worthy enough to be invited and to sit at table. At Mass this weekend, do not take that banquet of the Lord for granted. It can be easy to be distracted and take communion for granted. It is a great honor, and one that should not be taken lightly. So how do we get to the heavenly banquet? Only through God's grace and mercy of course. But also we must care for the lame crippled, blind, poor, and less fortunate. Having the courage to leave your comfort zone, and prepare a meal or dine at places like Trinity Café, St. Vincent De Paul or Pinellas Hope in our local community. You'll grow richer in spirit than you ever had thought you could.
Question for Reflection
How can I put aside my prideful feelings assuming that I have a place at the table?
I ask you, Lord Jesus, to put courage on my heart to go into the peripheries and bring hope to those less fortunate than me.
