"Now [Jesus] told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, 'When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him, and he who invited you both will come and say to you, "Give your place to this person," and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, "Friend, move up higher." Then you will be honoured in the presence of all who sit at table with you. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.'" - Luke 14:7-11
The KU Jayhawks won the NCAA men's basketball championship yesterday. At the press conference after the game, the team was asked how they overcame a 15-point halftime deficit. All the players said it was because of one person--Dejuan Harris, Jr.. Harris only scored two points in 27 minutes of play. But it is what he did on defense in the second half that inspired the team to victory. On a very big stage, Harris was duly recognised and raised up from a low place to a higher place.
In the age of selfies, many are into self-promotion. But this is not the way of the Christian. We are to humble ourselves. We don't seek the limelight. We simply work hard for the gospel. At the resurrection of the just, those who work hard for Jesus will be repaid justly (v. 14).
Some practical ways I can "sit in the lowest place" are: (1) to thank members of our congregation for what they do behind the scenes; (2) give others the opportunity to lead, speak, and carry out the ideas God gives them; (3) encourage my co-elders at Caversham Community Church; (4) speak humbly on the internet through our ministry website and on social media; and (5) carry out the instructions of the Holy Spirit without being overly concerned with success or notoriety.
Father, help me in the area of my inner motivations. If I do things to get noticed, please check me. Help me to be faithful to your instructions and to work hard, not to be noticed by men but to be obedient to you. In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jeff Coleman
