Today’s readings teach us the virtues of simplicity, humility and meekness. In our daily life we see people basking in the limelight of prominence and fame, unmindful of the needs and cries of others. but Jesus teaches in today’s parable a different value system where “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted”, “The first among you must be the servant of all”, “The last will be first and the first will be last”, “When you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed…”
Jesus’ own life is an eloquent example of meekness, simplicity, humility and humble service. The one who was and is in the form of God, takes the form of a human being becomes the servant of others, and befriends and entertains the poor and lowly of the society. Pope Francis reminds us, “We are called to draw near to the poor, to encounter them, to meet their gaze, to embrace them and to let them feel the warmth of love that breaks through their solitude. Their outstretched hand is also an invitation to step out of our certainties and comforts, and to acknowledge the value of poverty in itself” (Message for the World Day of the Poor, No.3). let us not forget that humility and meekness are virtues necessary for our entry into eternal life.