Our scripture this morning is Luke 14:7-11.
When Jesus noticed that all who had come to the dinner were trying to sit in the seats of honor near the head of the table, he gave them this advice: “When you are invited to a wedding feast, don’t sit in the seat of honor. What if someone who is more distinguished than you has also been invited? The host will come and say, ‘Give this person your seat.’ Then you will be embarrassed, and you will have to take whatever seat is left at the foot of the table! “Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, ‘Friend, we have a better place for you!’ Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Jesus was humble in all situations, claiming nothing for Himself but always glorifying God. He tells us in this passage how we should do the same, not seeking honor or recognition. Using the teachable moment of the dinner party and the scramble for the “good seats”, He reminds us that “those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (v. 11).
Even His own disciples were not above “jockeying for position” – read Mark 10:35-45. We all have a need to be recognized and appreciated but Jesus says we must not do so at the expense of others. By being humble, we give everyone a chance to receive the attention they deserve.
Our faith can help us understand that the attention of the world is nothing compared to being loved by God. He has a plan for each of us, and wonderful gifts that no one else can give. By being humble and kind as Jesus has shown, we can have “the good seats” with Him forever.
Gracious God, we are sorry for the times we have sought glory for ourselves instead of giving it to You. Help us to be the servants needed to share the Good News everywhere. Amen.