Posted by The WORD in other words (2010) by Father Antonio Pegon SVD – Rizal, Palawan
Saturday 3rd Week of Lent
A man in his mid-60s once visited me at the rectory, recounting his many accomplishments as a parish lay leader: president of the Parish Pastoral Council, president of the PTA, grand knight of the local council, and more. As I listened, I felt uneasy. His litany of achievements reminded me of a temptation that can affect us all — the temptation to boast.
Sometimes we highlight our accomplishments because we feel unnoticed or unappreciated. In Filipino culture, we even have a term for this: KSP (kulang sa pansin — craving attention). Yet there is a difference between bragging and giving glory to God. Sharing our achievements can be good if it acknowledges the One who gave us the opportunity to do good.
Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9–14). The Pharisee stood in the temple, listing his religious achievements: fasting, tithing, and moral uprightness. The tax collector, however, stood at a distance, beating his breast and praying: “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”
Jesus concluded: “I tell you, this man went home justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
This parable reminds us that righteousness is not measured by accomplishments or recognition, but by humility before God.
I recall watching a Filipino composer on Wowowee. When asked about his songs, he humbly said: “Whatever I have composed, it is because God graciously made me an instrument.” He recognized God as the true author of his work. The audience applauded, not just his talent, but his humility.
This echoes the tax collector’s prayer — acknowledging dependence on God rather than boasting of one’s own merits.
Humility is not denying our gifts, but recognizing their source. Our talents, leadership, and accomplishments are not ours alone — they are God’s grace working through us. When we boast, we seek attention for ourselves. When we give thanks, we direct attention to God.
True greatness lies in humility. To confess God as the author of all good is to live in truth. As Jesus teaches, “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 18:14).
“Lord, teach me to recognize You as the source of all my gifts. May I serve with humility, giving glory to You alone.”
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