Do we seek honor and reward? Or do we choose humility, service, and love without expecting anything in return?
My dear brothers and sisters, in this parable from Jesus, we see an important message about humility and the true worth of every individual. The invitation to a wedding feast and the choice of seats symbolize our desires in life. Suddenly, we fall into the trap of wanting to be recognized in the eyes of others. Jesus, in this Gospel, reminds us that true greatness is not about putting ourselves first but about being humble and taking the lowest place. As my rector said, “Ang Totoong Taong Naglilingkod ay nasa Likod.” Choosing to be at the lowest place serves as a reminder that we should not seek applause that lacks true value. “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Let us trust God that one day He will exalt us in ways we do not expect.
Jesus also tells us to invite those who cannot repay us: the poor, the sick, and the forgotten. True friendship and love are not measured by give and take but by our kindness and concern for those in need. By helping those who cannot give back, we become instruments of God's love. Our good deeds should not be done for reward but out of genuine love. These simple acts of kindness can have a big impact not only on others but also on our spiritual journey. For me, this is also what being a future missionary priest means: to serve those who cannot give anything in return, to love without expecting a reward. I was called to serve, not to be served. In the end, my vocation is not about being praised but about offering myself to God and His people. When we humble ourselves and give without expecting anything back, God will reward us in His perfect time.
My prayer for this 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time is that we may continue to live with humility. Let us take the lowest seat, knowing that all we have is a gift from God. May we show charity and love to those who cannot repay us and trust that our true reward is not here on earth, but in Heaven. Amen!
