In today’s first reading, Paul is writing to the Philippians from prison where he was likely experiencing brutal conditions from which he is seeking deliverance. After reading Paul’s letter, I am truly comforted and emboldened at the same time. Although we all likely fear death at some level, Paul reminds us that in death we are reunited with Christ – thus, a gain. However, he also understands the necessity to remain in the flesh to carry out God’s “fruitful labor.” If we are to remain living in the flesh, for what purpose? To me, it is doing God’s will by enhancing human wellbeing on earth through acts of kindness, calls for equity, and treating others with respect and dignity no matter their gender, race, ethnic background, religion, and so forth. Paul’s spirit motivates me to no longer fear death and at the same to allow Christ to be magnified in me in a way that I hope benefits others.
And we remain in the flesh, how do we go about that service to others? Our Gospel reading from Luke tells us to do so with humility. Jesus tells a parable in which guests invited to a wedding banquet at the home of one of the leading Pharisees are choosing their place of honor at the table. He notes that if you take a place of high honor and then a more distinguished guest arrives you will be asked to take the lowest place; however, if you take the lowest place, you may be moved to a higher position. So, rather than being embarrassed you will enjoy the esteem of your companions. This lesson was driven into me at a young age. Although my parents made me feel special, they always spoke and acted in a manner toward me that allowed me to keep those feelings in check – I was no better or worse than anyone else. I think this treatment allowed me to not only develop a sense of humility, but also a sense that others are important – no matter who you are or your background, you are a child of God. I like to think that we are all better off when we humble ourselves in front of others since, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18)
A way to center ourselves and to keep us on track is to remember that Jesus ends this parable with, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11) I remember being humbled by a fortune cookie I received after eating at Ping’s in Minneapolis during our first year of marriage. The card read – “Don’t be so humble, you’re not that great” – Golda Meir. And so I live my life…and my marriage.
Michael Kavan
I am currently the Associate Dean for Student Affairs at Creighton University School of Medicine. I am also a psychologist and a Professor of Family Medicine and Professor of Psychiatry. I have been a faculty member at Creighton University since 1988 and teach classes on a variety of topics related to behavioral medicine, depression, anxiety, and interviewing skills for medical students and residents. In addition, I practice psychology at one of our family medicine clinics.
I am happily married to my wife, Mary, and we have four daughters. I truly enjoy working with medical students and assisting in their professional development. I like to spend time cycling, running, fly fishing, reading, and spending time with my family.
I greatly appreciate the opportunity to write these reflections. They provide an opportunity to reflect on the daily readings at a deeper level and determine how best to translate the messages into practical advice for day-to-day living. In doing this, I truly believe we may begin to live out the message of Jesus Christ.
