Theme of the Day: The Humble Will Be Exalted; The Exalted Will Be Humbled
Everyone knows that humility is a positive trait and pride is a negative one. So, why bother talking about what we already know? Because in spite of that knowledge, we still helplessly fall into the trap of pride. We cannot help but think that our ascent to the exalted status we desire is our responsibility. We even take our exaltation into our own hands, either by treating poorly those we believe we can stand on top of or by showing favoritism to those we believe can provide us with upward mobility. Rather than minimizing pride as a sin that is common or harmless, Jesus’ words today confront us with this hard truth. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled by God. But Jesus also gives us the promise we need to be freed from pride’s trap. Our exaltation doesn’t need to be our responsibility because Jesus has already made it his. Those who humble themselves Christ will exalt.
Luke 14:1,7-14
Proverbs 25:6,7a
James 2:1-13
Psalm 112A
690 – Blest Are They
729 – Son of God, Eternal Savior
766 – Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service
310 – Arise, O Christian People
976 – My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord
Prayer of the Day: O Lord of grace and mercy, teach us by your Holy Spirit to follow the example of your Son in true humility, that we may withstand the temptations of the devil and with pure hearts and minds avoid ungodly pride; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Alleluia.