The way down is up and the way up is down. This concept of Jesus in Luke 14:1, 7-14 is totally opposite of the way the world thinks. The world says if you want to be successful and be somebody you’ve got to push, fight and work your way to the top. Jesus says on the other hand that if you try to promote yourself, you’ll end up humbled. James 4:10 says “Humble yourself before the Lord and He will lift you up.” So, on one hand we have pride and on the other hand, we have the concept of humility.
Pride is basically the attitude that says, “‘the world revolves around me.” As Jesus observed the guests, He detected the poison of pride in their lives. Pride wasn’t just a problem back then; it is a problem today and many people fail to recognize it in their lives. It always leads to ruin (Cf. Isaiah 14:12-15). On the other hand, the bible speaks over and over about the value of humility. Proverbs 29:23 says, “A man’s pride will bring him low; but the humble in spirit retains honour.” True humility is seeing yourself as God sees you. It is not having a poor self-image rather it is having an honest evaluation of who you are–as the bible describes you; a wretched sinner who was ransomed by God (See Romans 7). Again, true humility is revealed by how you treat others. The only way to reveal your humility is if you treat others more highly than yourself (Philippians 2:3-6) especially those beneath us according to societal stratification. He displayed this reality by washing his disciples’ feet (Cf. John 13:1-17). Humility is also refined through adversity. Sometimes when God sees we are getting a little proud, He allows some humbling experience to come our way. That’s what Jesus meant when He said, “everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled.” God allowed Paul to suffer some ailment to keep him humble (Cf. 2 Corinthians 12:7). He still does that today. Let us embrace this table etiquette of the Kingdom of God and see a new turnaround in our lives for the better. Shalom!
Bible Passages for Daily Reflection
To be equipped for God’s work, we must study His word (Cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17), reflect on it daily and live. Ensure you share the fruits of your meditation with at least two people.
Sunday: 2 Cor. 13:1-14
Monday: Galatians 1:1-24
Tuesday: Galatians 2:1-21
Wednesday: Galatians 3:1-29
Thursday: Galatians 4:1-31
Friday: Galatians 5:1-26
Saturday: Galatians 6:1-18
Psalm of the Week: Psalm 131
Prayer:
O Lord our soul is not proud, we look upon you with the hope of eternal redemption. Amen!
