Prayer is critically and crucially important for our spiritual life, yet we discover in the Gospel today the power that results when our prayers are grounded in the humility that recognizes our own weaknesses, shortcomings, and sins.
Unfortunately, humility is a dying virtue because it is misinterpreted as weakness, fragility, and meekness. It is in contrast to the Western cultural ideals of individualism and unrestrained capitalism. Its demise is unfortunate because humility comes with many benefits.
We all know the Bible often contradicts Western cultural ideas. In James 4:10 we are encouraged to, “Humble [ourselves] before the Lord, and He will lift you up” and I Peter 5:6 also encouraged us to, “Humble [ourselves], therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time.”
Moreover, on an individual level, humility has a positive effect on self-awareness. Humble individuals accept that they have blind spots and look for ways to improve. They are open to receiving feedback from others. They avoid the trap of prideful-overconfidence which clouds judgment and decision-making.
On an interpersonal level, humility strengthens social bonds because humble individuals are quick to accept responsibility and apologize for their mistakes. High-quality apologies are extremely effective at reducing conflict and repairing relationships.
My brothers and sister, those who humble themselves find God’s favor: “Though the LORD is great, He cares for the humble.” Therefore, I invite you to join me in this humble prayer and may we all continue to humbly amd fervently call upon the Lord in our spiritual journeys.
4GIVEN 