Poison of Pride
Saturday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
Read this Gospel passage aloud to the family
Luke 14:1,7-11 - On a sabbath Jesus went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully.
He told a parable to those who had been invited, noticing how they were choosing the places of honor at the table. “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor. A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him, and the host who invited both of you may approach you and say, 'Give your place to this man,' and then you would proceed with embarrassment to take the lowest place. Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place so that when the host comes to you he may say, ‘My friend, move up to a higher position.' Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
(Parent) Reread this part a few times aloud
“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
(Parent) Read this meditation aloud to the family
Jesus tells this parable about humility to a group of people at a dinner He is attending. Obviously, He notices some people seeking to be put in places of honor at the meal. What if Jesus came to one of our parties with a group of our friends? Would he see the same kind of behavior? Most people love receiving honor and special attention. Most of us want to stand out above others.
We have to be very careful about our pride. Pride not only makes us love ourselves too much, pride also makes us despise others. If we want to be considered greater, then others must be considered lesser. Pride is like poison. During prayer, let’s examine where each of us needs to battle the sin of pride. Is there something humble we can do as a remedy or medicine to the poison of pride.
As a family, pray a portion of the Rosary together (very short if children are young) reflecting on the Scripture passage above. (Optional: allow a brief time for discussion or questions from children concerning their thoughts and prayer.)
Reminder for Parents: Pier is just meant to be a jumping off point. The real goal is that you pray & eventually use the fruits of your personal prayer as the content of your family’s prayer. Duc in altum.
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