Published 8-31-25 bulletin

FR. DAN SHAUGHNESSY

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This week’s Gospel reading presents us with a profound teaching from Jesus, delivered during a meal at the home of a leading Pharisee. As we reflect on this passage, we can glean two essential lessons: the importance of humility and the call to generosity.

Jesus begins by observing the behavior of His fellow guests as they jostle for places of honor at the table. In this social setting, status and prestige were paramount. Yet, Jesus turns this cultural norm on its head. He advises us to take the lowest place, emphasizing that humility is the pathway to true exaltation. “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” This radical shift challenges us to reconsider our own desires for recognition and status.

In our daily lives, we often find ourselves vying for attention and accolades, whether in our workplaces, communities, or even within our families. Jesus invites us to step back and embrace a posture of humility. By choosing to occupy a lowly place, we open ourselves to the possibility of being lifted up—not by our own doing, but by the grace of God and the recognition of others. It is a reminder that our worth is not determined by our achievements or social standing, but by our identity as beloved children of God.

The second part of the passage addresses the host directly, urging him to invite the marginalized—“the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.” Here, Jesus calls us to a radical generosity that transcends societal expectations. By inviting those who cannot repay us, we embody the love of Christ, who reached out to the outcasts and the downtrodden. This is a call not just to charity, but to solidarity with those who bear the burdens of poverty and exclusion.

As we gather around our tables—be it at home, in our communities, or in our churches—let us remember these teachings. Who do we invite to share our meals? Are we opening our doors to those in need, or are we confined to our circles of comfort? In this spirit, let us strive to cultivate humility in our hearts and generosity in our actions. May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of Christ’s love, as we seek to lift up those around us, creating a community where all are welcomed and cherished.

Let us pray for the grace to embody these teachings in our lives, fostering a spirit of humility and generosity that mirrors the heart of Jesus.

In Christ's love,

Fr. Dan Shaughnessy