Have you ever arrived at a dinner or banquet and exclaimed, “Oh my gosh, are you kidding me, we’re sitting here”… maybe your next to the band or next to the bathroom, or in the far corner. I’m embarrassed to say that sometimes I’ve had that reaction.  Most times it doesn’t really bother me, but at other times it can hit me and I almost take it personally. I don’t want to react this way, but sometimes I do. 

I remember one time I went to an event…. we were directed to a very nice spot; as we’re getting situated, I’m rearranging my silverware and fixing my napkin, I’m notified we’re in the wrong spot and asked to move to another spot in the corner. Wow, I smiled and worked hard to not act like a “pill”, but I was very disappointed and kind of took it personally. The devil was playing the old sob stories on my “memory TV”. I didn’t want to respond like that and I knew it wasn’t personal, but it hurt me. As St, Paul says, “wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24)

Today’s gospel reading from Luke 14 reminded me of some of this. The parable is about being invited to a wedding banquet and choosing the place of honor. In essence Jesus tells us to seek the lowest place ..” for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”(Luke 14:1,7-11) 

All of this can remind me that I’m not the man I desire to be. Sometimes it’s clear that the things of this world really matter to me…praise and honor and recognition. I don’t like that about me, but it’s true. 

Well, I can also say that I’m happy when these tendencies come to light, because I know the Lord will help me to change. I want to change. I want to be humble seeking the lowest place as the Lord  prescribes. I know that’s where I am happiest. I know the Lord will help me. 

“For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.” (Ps. 84:10).  I love this passage. Sometimes I dream of heaven where I can serve the Lord… maybe bringing the Lord a cup of coffee as he sits with one of the saints…. just being with the Lord, being attentive, serving him and hopefully catching a glance…. Wow, that would be great.

Well, this BLOG is rambling, so let’s bring it to an end. The “net-net” is Lord we just want to do your will…we want to be where you want us…we want to be your servant…please help us Lord. And, all will be well with our soul.