Sunday, September 1, 2019

This week, St. Augustine admonishes that, ”If you should ask me what are the  ways of God, I would tell you that the first is humility, the second is humility, and the third is humility. Not that there are no other precepts to give, but if humility does not precede all that we do, our efforts are fruitless.”

Ethical and moral principles, like humility, sanctioned by Divine authority have been misconstrued as interfering with personal (human) rights and freedom. 

Mistakenly, our modern world has brainwashed us into believing that being proud, arrogant, disrespecting, self exaltative, assertive, and imposing means you are exercising your inalienable human rights and liberty. But it is not true. This is just a charade! Rather, the consequential effect include loneliness, unnecessary justification of wrongs; which not only endanger personal relationships but also breakdown of societal fraternity and bond. 

It pays to be humble. No man is an Island. As humans we live in chains and no one can absolutely claim to be independent of the other. Humility is a bridge that connect us.
Being humble does not suggest cowardice, bashfulness, timidity, hypocrisy or weakness but dignifying our humanness and glorifying God.

The author (Bin Sira) of our first reading makes a clarion call that, ”My child, conduct your affairs with humility, and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts. Humble yourself the more, the greater you are, and you will find favor with God.” (Sir 3:17-18)

As a Christian, you must understand that humility is what you need as a proof of your faith. As a virtue it manifests your dispositions in life. It reveals your real identity and your purpose in life. It is an obligation. This is what the saints did. It’s your turn, make it your goal. Just be humble!

Jesus Christ, in the gospel reading, teaches us how to practically be humble. Do not seek for prominence in public, lest you embarrass yourself. He cautioned, ”for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Lk 14:11) Also, treat the poor, the sick and the unfortunate ones in the society with respect and honor. 

There is always a reward for your humility. Humility makes you the real you. May your sense of humility give you every good gift from the Lord, put into your heart the love of His name. By deepening your sense of reverence, and by His watchful care, May the Lord keep you safe in whatever He has nurtured in you. Amen.

May your week be a wonderful one!! 
We welcome our students back to school. I am excited; hope you are also super excited! Let's meet at church.

Fr. Emmanuel.

Readings for the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time