Both the Book of Sirach and the Gospel of Luke emphasize the virtue of humility in our actions with God and one another as we confront it’s opposing vice, pride.
Luke’s Gospel reminds us that before we confess someone else’s sins we might want to start with our own. The analogy about what is caught in our eye can help us from becoming blinded by our own pride.
The Book of Sirach exhorts us to “conduct our affairs with humility,” and through truth, honesty and perspective we can confront the pride in our hearts with this powerful (and often underappreciated) virtue.
Jesus offers a parable that speaks to our hearts. When we are caught in pride and selfishness, the words of the tax collector can restore our perspective and need for the Lord. As we reflect on our sins and shortcomings may we call out and say, “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”
As the Lord observes people positioning themselves for places of honor at a banquet, he uses the opportunity to teach about pride and humility, inviting us to avoid making comparisons and seeking a simple approach.