The words of the Gospel today; namely, “For every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted,” cause us to pause and reflect on the root sin of pride and the virtue of humility that will allow us to overcome pride.
In speaking of pride, I do not mean that somebody who works diligently and does a good job is sinful. I can take pride in my work and do it to the best of my ability. I can take pride in my family and their accomplishments. In doing so, again, I am not sinning. Pride that is sinful is a disordered attachment to one’s own excellence. The proud person tends to seek meaning and fulfillment in their own achievements and conquests. Pride comes in many forms and has a far reach, that is why it is referred to as “the mother of all sins.” Pride is based on the deep desire to do all things one’s own way and delight in the outcome. It can be seen in perfectionism, which one goes to great lengthens to prove their value and worth. As a result, the proud person works long and hard for their own recognition, conquests, achievements, and glory, which robs God of that glory. A person of pride has a very high opinion of themselves; tend to be judgmental; lack compassion for others; never seeks forgiveness or apologizes (for they are never wrong); they put themselves first at the expense of others and ultimately God.
The remedy for pride is humility. Humility will lead us to recognize that all gifts come from God. With this acknowledgment, I give God the proper honor and glory that is His due. For all that I am able to accomplish is because of God. It is by His grace that I can do the things I do and do them well. So, today humble yourself before God and acknowledge that I can do all things because He is at work in my life.
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Fr. Wayne