Think you’re pretty important?

Our Lord gives us a big reality check in today’s Gospel (Matthew 23:1-12):

Whoever exalts himself
will be humbled;
but whoever humbles himself
will be exalted.

False modesty, of course, is just another form of pride, aggravated by dishonesty.

We need to be honest about ourselves, but also honest and clear in our perspective.

No matter how powerful or intelligent we may be, we are but a passing wisp of smoke when compared to the infinity and eternity that yawns around us.

No matter how beautiful our bodies, true spiritual beauty will always be more compelling and lasting and all things pale in comparison to the glory which is God.

No matter how meritorious our deeds, we are not worthy to unfasten the sandal of the sinless One who died for the sins of the world.

Yet if we are honest about our strengths and weaknesses, our gifts and our needs, and if we humbly bind ourselves to the Lord and his Will by his grace...

...no matter how we have failed and fallen short, he will raise us up;

...no matter how wretched and unlovable we may feel, he will love us with a passion most tender and intense;

...and no matter who we are, we find exaltation and vindication through the infinite love and merits of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.