Seeking Humility
AM Psalm 20, 21:1-7(8-14) • PM Psalm 110:1-5(6-7), 116, 117
Ecclus. 3:17-31 • Acts 28:17-31 • Luke 9:37-50
I turn first to the selection from Ecclesiasticus, the largest wisdom book of the ancient Hebrews to have survived. I know I need special insight in order to write accurately and appropriately about today’s readings. What I learn, with some relief, is that I just need to approach the task with humility. (That won’t be hard!). The writer of Ecclesiasticus—probably the Judahite scribe Ben Sira of Jerusalem—tells us to perform tasks with humility/meekness. “Seek not the things that are too high for thee, and search not into things above thy ability” (3:22).
In the related selections, we receive examples of humility in action. Psalm 20 tells us not to boast “in chariots and horses” but to remember that any victory comes with the help of the Lord (20:7). And as humble people, we will of course thank the Lord for giving us blessings (20:5). Paul serves as a role model of humility for us in the selection from Acts 28: he did not accuse others of wrongdoing in arresting and imprisoning him but only tried to clear himself. “I am wearing this chain for the sake of the hope of Israel” (20:20).
But unsurprisingly, the most striking example of humility in the face of adversity emanates from Jesus. It is clear from the context in Luke 9 that Jesus is aware that his remaining time with his disciples is to be cut short and that his disciples are not yet ready to carry on his work (example—they could not cast a demon out of a boy).
But when the boy’s father begs Jesus to look at his boy, Jesus takes the time to “rebuke the unclean spirit,” heals the boy and gives him back to his father (9: 42) Then the unprepared disciples start arguing among themselves about who among them is the greatest (no humility there!) so Jesus, still trying to teach them about priorities, “took a child and stood him by his side,” saying “whoever received this child in my name receives me” (9:48).
Written by Karen Hodges
...who is still learning new things every day (like who wrote Ecclesiasticus) and who, therefore, remains both humbled and grateful to be able to continue learning.