HUMILITY NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE

Recently I found myself scrolling through Netflix looking for something interesting to watch. I came across an 'entertainment comedy' about misfits and socially awkward people in a wedding. The movie is called "Table 19". It is about a wedding celebration where the bride invited people she did not feel close to but out of some past obligation needed to invite. Rather than put them close to her and the family by the head table, she put them at the back in the corner. This was the last table, thus called "Table 19". Those seated at this table made the best of their position and that formed the plot for the movie.

Even though the guests seating at this table are strange, they have a good heart and they also hello each other find goodness in themselves. It is a sweet and endearing story. The main character and ex-maid of honour Eloise - having been relieved of her duties after being unceremoniously dumped by the best man via text - decides to hold her head high and attend her oldest friend's wedding anyway. As a result she finds herself seated at the random table in the back of the ballroom with a disparate group of strangers, most of whom should have known to just send regrets. As everyone's secrets are revealed, Eloise learns a thing or two from the other guests of "Table 19".

Have you ever been seated at "Table 19"? You are invited to an event but don't merit the front row, the head table or the first tier. You are among the general grouping or worse, relegated to the outer limits of the occasion. It happens to all of us. While it may off-putting and even humiliating depending on circumstances, a wise person will make the best of it and focus on others in the same circumstance.

Christ spoke a parable about this. It is called The Parable of the Wedding Feast.

"When He noticed how the guests picked up the places of honour at the table, He told them this parable: 'When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, 'Give this man your seat'. Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, He will say to you, 'Friend move up to a better place'. Then you will be honoured in the presence of all your fellow guests. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." (Luke 14:7-11)

Jesus' advice was not to rush for the best places at a feast. People today are just as eager to raise their social status, whether by being with the right people, dressing for success, or driving the right car.

Some people try to give the appearance of humility in order to manipulate others. Others think that humility means to put themselves down. Truly humble people compare themselves only with Christ, realise their sinfulness and understand their limitations. On the other hand, they also realise their gifts and strengths and are willing to use them as Christ directs. Humility is not self-degradation; it is a realistic assessment and commitment to serve.

You can find yourself at "Table 19" and still maintain an attitude of acceptance without becoming bitter or resentful. Maintain a humble spirit and in time you will move to the front. Try to crash on your own and you will be sent to the outer reaches. Christ spoke this parable while in the home of a leading Pharisee. This religious sect from the time of Christ is not depicted in Scripture as especially humble. Christ chose this venue to make some important points about how to conduct oneself amongst others.

Humility never goes out of style. Humility is a choice. When we chose humility then God can work with us, "exalting" us in ways beyond imagination.

Next time you may find yourself at "Table 19" relax and accept it. Focus on enjoying the moment. Stay humble.