In the first reading St. Paul addresses the Christians of Jewish ethnic origin, allaying their concerns about the preaching of the Gospel message to the gentiles. He makes it clear that the Gentiles are also part of God’s plan for salvation, but that does not exclude Jewish Christians. He does not mince his words in pointing to the failures of the Jews and suggests that the conversion of the Gentiles should encourage Jews to follow Christ. The psalm promises us that God will not abandon us but that we should live holy lives. In the Gospel Proclamation, Our Lord Jesus Christ recommends humility with a pointed message, this time not in parable, but clearly aimed at his audience, themselves seated at a Pharisee’s table. We too can get caught up in the temptation to seek social recognition through high office and impressing others with material trappings of wealth and, in doing so, lose sight of the reason for our existence – to know, love and serve God.

Abba Father, send your Holy Spirit into our hearts to remind us of your purpose for our lives – Amen.