Basic HTML Version
Reverence and humility are kindred virtues. The humble man is not affected by his own
accomplishments so he possesses grace that empowers him to be reverent. If one is not
humble he probably won˅t be reverent. Today, when so many people struggle to reach
the top for material wealth, the virtues of reverence and humility are even more difficult to
achieve.
Jesus shocked the Pharisees with his willingness to interact with tax collectors. He told
the Pharisee that the tax collector, not him, ˈwent home justifiedˉ (or, ˄just if I˅d˅
never
sinned).
St. Augustine said
ˈthe three most important factors in the spiritual life are hu-
mility, humility, and humility.ˉ
The tax collector, not the Pharisee was the illustration of
humility.
The wise person, no matter what his title or station, never behaves as if he
were higher than anyone else. Reverence and humility is a gift of God˅s gener-
osity and grace. Our response should be humble gratitude, faithful obedience
and open thanksgiving, rejoicing in the salvation that is from God.
Prayer
Almighty Father, we praise you and thank you for your grace. You have given
us your mercy and loving kindness despite our sinfulness. Enlighten us with
your understanding and sustain our humility. Help us to live wisely, reverent
and humble, and to praise you always.
In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit,
Amen
_______
Debbie Eggleston
Parishioner
The Penitence of St. Jerome, c. 1520
Albrecht Bouts
Flemish, c.1452/5-1549
Oil on panel
16-1/8 x 17-3/4 in. (41 x 45.1 cm)
Norton Simon Art Foundation