2025-08-31 10:30 am Sunday celebration of the Holy Mass.

Good morning everyone and welcome to the celebration of the Holy Mass on this, the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time. In the reading from the Holy Gospel (Luke 14:1, 7-14), Jesus gives two main teachings: first, to choose the lowest place at a meal to avoid being asked to move, as humility leads to exaltation by God; second, to host banquets for the poor, crippled, lame, and blind, rather than for friends or the wealthy, because such generosity will be rewarded at the resurrection of the righteous. This passage challenges the societal norms of seeking status and reciprocated favor, calling instead for radical hospitality and selfless generosity rooted in God's ultimate justice and blessing. Humility and Status The Right Seat: At the beginning of the passage, Jesus observes the other guests' behavior at a meal held by a prominent Pharisee. He advises them to take the lowest place at a banquet, emphasizing that humility is rewarded with greater honor. A New Perspective: Jesus suggests that our desire for prestige and social status, which is prevalent in our celebrity-focused culture, should be replaced with a humble mindset. Divine Reversal: The passage implies that those who seek to elevate themselves will be brought low, while those who humble themselves will be exalted. Generosity and Hospitality The True Banquet: Jesus' main point is a critique of the typical guest list, which focuses on those who can repay the favor. Instead, when hosting a banquet, one should invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Beyond Reciprocity: The reason given is that these guests cannot repay you in a social or economic sense. This lack of expectation for return makes the act an act of true, selfless generosity. Future Reward: This radical form of hospitality is not merely advice but a prophetic and theological statement, promising a blessing and repayment at the "resurrection of the righteous". Transforming Privilege: The passage calls for using one's own privilege and resources to become a blessing to others, particularly those who are marginalized, as a reflection of God's own inclusive love. Our Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 68: "In your goodness, O God, you prepared a home for the poor."