A Few Words On "The Word"

September 2, 2007
The 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C

Luke 14:1, 7-14

Can you be anonymous?

Have you ever known someone who was so generous that they would give away the very shirt off their back if someone needed it? More often than not, these same charitable people are totally content when no one even knows about the many good things they've done. They go through life serving others, never desiring any type of recognition for their actions.

I was once asked the following question, "Could you be anonymous?" It's one of the toughest questions I've ever been faced with. As humans we like to be recognized and rewarded for our successes and good deeds. Our parents often reward us for making good grades or behaving well in certain situations. It's natural to want people to know that we help others. It encourages people to like us more which makes us feel good, and boosts our self-esteem and confidence.

Unfortunately, Jesus seems to be saying something slightly different in today's gospel. In his continued emphasis on lifting up the lowly, Jesus tells us not to seek out the recognition or fame we feel we deserve. He points out that there will always be others who have worked longer and harder than we have and therefore deserve greater recognition. In fact, Jesus encourages us to live totally for others expecting no kind of repayment or reward.

In theory, this sounds good. We know that living for others shouldn't be about us. It may make us feel good or even give us a sense of peace but at some point on the way you'll have to decide why you're serving others. Is it because it makes you feel good or is it because it's the right thing to do?

Today Jesus is asking you, "Can you be anonymous?" Can you live for Christ by serving others and empowering the meek and the lowly, knowing that you will never be rewarded by those around you? Our love for others must be stronger than our own desire for love and recognition. We must strive to live humbly, namelessly inviting "the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind" to dine at our table, seeking ways to silently build God's kingdom.

Reflection Question

In what ways can you strive to be anonymous as you serve others?

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