I often watch movies about the families of major business tycoons. There are many such kinds of movies. However, their themes and plotlines are often strikingly similar, revolving around families with immense business success and vast wealth. They consistently showcase their strength and power. The richer and more successful they become, the greater their influence grows. They are locked in a relentless competition to seize a high social standing—a seat of honor.
These families typically also hold powerful positions in society. It is these wealthy dynasties that control the societal reins because they possess the money to pay people to protect and defend their interests. The relationship between economics and politics is like that of a husband and wife; they are incredibly difficult to separate.
Viewers of these movies are sent a powerful message: that wealth and social status are the most important goals to pursue, as they are the true guarantees of a significant life. One must possess a sense of self-worth and pride that is dependent on riches and power. But is it true that those who achieve all this live lives of peace, tranquillity, and prosperity? In reality, these movies are also filled with portrayals of cutthroat competition, deep-seated enmity, mutual hatred, and schemes to push one another out of the way.
The Word of God in today's readings (Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29 and Luke 14:1, 7-24) teaches a completely opposite set of values. "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" (Sirach 3:17-18).
In today's gospel, Jesus teaches two crucial lessons. The first is about humility. "When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor" (Luke 14:8). Jesus said this because He observed the guests at the banquet He was attending jostling for the seats of honor. This behavior is an expression of the pride and self-centeredness that Jesus criticizes.
Secondly, Jesus teaches that we should not invite our friends, brothers, relatives, or wealthy neighbors with the expectation that they will repay the invitation. Instead, we should invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Why? They cannot repay you. This is the very essence of love: giving without any expectation of return.
These two lessons remind us of the profound importance of humility, of knowing our place, and of not promoting ourselves. This does not mean we should not work hard to achieve success. That is still necessary, but it should not be done with the intention of making success the measure of our self-worth. It is not for us to elevate ourselves. Let God be the one to do that, for He alone knows who is truly worthy of being exalted. "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14:11).
Furthermore, Jesus also teaches us to share with our neighbors in a spirit of love and sincerity, mirroring God Himself, who gives without expecting anything in return. This is the key to a truly happy life (Luke 14:14). We must let God be the one to repay our good deeds on the day of the resurrection of the righteous.
In truth, these two lessons from Jesus also lead to attaining a high position. So, what differentiates this path from the stories in the movies? The difference lies in the mentality used to achieve it and the final result. The films often end in strife and conflict because everyone is fighting to claw their way to the top. The methods used are contrary to the teachings of the Gospel, and the result is a temporary, and often false, happiness. In Jesus' teaching, however, one attains a high position by the grace of God. This final result is genuine, authentic, and eternal. This is the true throne of honor.
Are we willing to walk the path of humility, which leads to a truly joyful end? May God bless us all. (*)