Reminders of humility

Today's first reading (Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29) and today's Gospel (Luke 14:1, 7-14) both focus on humility while the second reading (Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24a) reminds us of how close God brings us to himself in glory.

Combined, the readings remind us that true humility is the realistic recognition of our own limitations and our absolute dependence upon God's grace.

As for a reflection on how this should affect the living of our daily lives, the full passage from Sirach (3:17-29) bears prayerful consideration:

My son, 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.

For though many have been great in the course of time,
it is to the humble he reveals his secrets

For great is the power of God;
by the humble he is glorified.

What is too sublime for you, seek not,
into things beyond your strength search not.

What is committed to you, attend to;
for what is hidden is not your concern.

With what is too much for you meddle not,
when shown things beyond human understanding.

Their own opinion has misled many,
and false reasoning unbalanced their judgment.

Where the pupil of the eye is missing, there is no light,
and where there is no knowledge, there is no wisdom.

A stubborn man will fare badly in the end,
and he who loves danger will perish in it.

A stubborn man will be burdened with sorrow;
a sinner will heap sin upon sin.

For the affliction of the proud man there is no cure;
he is the offshoot of an evil plant.

The mind of a sage appreciates proverbs,
and an attentive ear is the wise man's joy.

Water quenches a flaming fire,
and alms atone for sins.