Living in the Spirit
August 6, 2016

Scripture Reading: Luke 14:1, 7-14

When he noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. ‘When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host; and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, “Give this person your place”, and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, “Friend, move up higher”; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.’ –Luke 14:7-11

There is a country and western song by Mac Davis popular several years ago with this first line: Oh Lord it’s hard to be humble When you’re perfect in every way. It comes to my mind each time I read this scripture. The scripture seems to game the art of humility, and that bothers me. It does not bother me more than those who assume they are the center of attention, and the best seat is surely intended for them. It points out the truth of the song; it is hard to be humble and be self-confident and be fearless in facing the challenges of the world. It is impossible unless we have incorporated into our very being the source of all humility: the overwhelming love of God that enables who we are at every point in life.

Jesus set the example for all. He seemed to have time for everyone. Yesterday, I was in a hurry, had to run to the grocery store for a quick purchase on my way to somewhere else when A woman stopped me in the parking lot holding up some money in her hand and asking if I could give her more. I rarely carry much cash, and I do not believe that handing out money is particularly helpful, but I did not give her my time. I did not even find out what she needed. I said, “Sorry I cannot help” and sped on to my next task. People soliciting money is not an uncommon occurrence and in Oklahoma City it is against the law to beg, but I missed the mark in this encounter. I need to game plan myself a way to love a child of God like the woman in the parking lot while not contributing to whatever problems she might have that led her to that situation and fitting her into my hectic schedule.

Prayer: Lord, help me to prepare for whatever you call me to do. Let me learn from my failures and not repeat them. Amen.

*See at https://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&aq=&oq=O+Lord+its+hard&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4WQIB_enUS519US519&q=o+lord+it%27s+hard+to+be+humble+lyrics+&gs_l=hp..1.0i10l5.0.0.0.7913………..0.gBdG8vC4ZSY

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized 
Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council 
of Churches of Christ in the United States of American. Used by permission. All rights 
reserved.