Jesus leaves us with wisdom concerning the importance of humility, “The last will be first.” Concerning humility Saint Augustine states, “Humility is the foundation of all the other virtues hence, in the soul in which this virtue does not exist, there cannot be any other virtue except in mere appearance.” As Saint Bernard of Clairvaux stresses, “The three most important virtues are: humility, humility, and humility.”
Humility is an important virtue which counteracts the vice of pride. So often humility goes misunderstood to the point that one begins to think that through humility we are being asked to look down upon ourself. Humility does not require us to look down upon self, but to be realistic with our presentation of self.
To be found humble of heart is to fully accept who we are as one who is created in the image and likeness of God the Father. The humble of heart realize their strengths and are willing to use them for the benefit of others. The humble of heart accept their limitations and realize their dependence upon others. The humble of heart are not threatened by the accomplishments of others and thus are willing to embrace them. The humble of heart acknowledge their own sinfulness and prevail themself to the infinite mercy of God.
Taking the last place of honor at a table does not call us towards thinking ill of self. Taking this last place of honor does cause us to realize that others exist and that we should be preoccupied with taking care of their needs. Through pride we elevate ourself while casting all those who are around us downward. We are called to walk humbly with God which means that we are called to follow where He has gone before and all that He has handed down to us.
It is through our giving and receiving that we act humbly. It is through these gestures that we allow ourself to enter into the very life of the Most Holy Trinity. Within the Trinity we see this profound expression of love where each person of the Trinity pours themself out to another while asking for nothing in return. The Trinity is an expression of God’s love which grounds us in humility as we enter into this mystery and move outward from it in order to live it.
Humility was found at the cross when Jesus laid down His life for us. Humility is found in the Most Holy Eucharist for God continues to dwell among us here in order that we may commune with Him. We are each invited to this wedding banquet which is taking place now. Let us come to fully embrace our nothingness and weakness as something which perfects our humility.
How are we called to grow in humility this day by letting go of self and uplifting those who are around us? As Sirach states, “Humble yourself the more, the greater you are, and you will find favor with God.” Let us desire to achieve this favor with God through our faithful practice of humility in our daily life.
