Faith Today

October 31, 2026

The Blessing of Humility

“"For everyone who raises himself up will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be raised up."”
Luke 14:11

Today's Reflection

To our community, in a world where nations grapple with conflict and leaders debate the best ways to protect people, today’s call is to place humility at the center of our actions. As France urges giving Ukraine the means to defend its people, we are reminded that serving others—sometimes quietly and without recognition—is the highest form of leadership and care.

Coping

In times of struggle, especially when facing hard news or uncertainty, today's readings remind us that hope and humility can give us strength. When we let go of pride and expectations, we find room for God’s comfort and guidance, trusting that even our lowest moments can lead to growth and renewal.

Family

Care for family often means putting others before ourselves, just as Paul expresses his willingness to stay for the sake of his community. Humility helps us serve and support each other, and creates an environment where everyone’s needs are seen and respected.

Community

Our communities grow stronger when we set aside the need for recognition and choose to lift others up. Today’s Gospel encourages us to take the lower place, knowing that true honor and unity come from humility and love, not from seeking the spotlight.

Today's Readings

First Reading · Philippians 1:18-26

[18] But what does it matter? Only that in both ways, whether with false motives or true, Christ is proclaimed, and for that I am happy; [19] and I shall go on being happy, too, because I know that this is what will save me, with your prayers and with the support of the Spirit of Jesus Christ; [20] all in accordance with my most confident hope and trust that I shall never have to admit defeat, but with complete fearlessness I shall go on, so that now, as always, Christ will be glorified in my body, whether by my life or my death. [21] Life to me, of course, is Christ, but then death would be a positive gain. [22] On the other hand again, if to be alive in the body gives me an opportunity for fruitful work, I do not know which I should choose. [23] I am caught in this dilemma: I want to be gone and to be with Christ, and this is by far the stronger desire- [24] and yet for your sake to stay alive in this body is a more urgent need. [25] This much I know for certain, that I shall stay and stand by you all, to encourage your advance and your joy in the faith, [26] so that my return to be among you may increase to overflowing your pride in Jesus Christ on my account.

Psalm · Psalms 42:2, 3, 5

[2] I thirst for God, the living God; when shall I go to see the face of God? [3] I have no food but tears day and night, as all day long I am taunted, 'Where is your God?' [5] Why be so downcast, why all these sighs? Hope in God! I will praise him still, my Saviour,

Gospel · Luke 14:1, 7-11

[1] Now it happened that on a Sabbath day he had gone to share a meal in the house of one of the leading Pharisees; and they watched him closely. [7] He then told the guests a parable, because he had noticed how they picked the places of honour. He said this, [8] 'When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take your seat in the place of honour. A more distinguished person than you may have been invited, [9] and the person who invited you both may come and say, "Give up your place to this man." And then, to your embarrassment, you will have to go and take the lowest place. [10] No; when you are a guest, make your way to the lowest place and sit there, so that, when your host comes, he may say, "My friend, move up higher." Then, everyone with you at the table will see you honoured. [11] For everyone who raises himself up will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be raised up.'