Scripture Study for

The author of Sirach admonishes the student to be content with things that are within the realm of possibility. Since this is a discourse on humility, it implies that one might attempt the impossible in order to promote one’s reputation in the eyes of others. Still, the only way we discover whether or not we are attempting the impossible is to try. Failure to achieve our goals will help us to recognize our limitations. It is precisely in situations of ambiguity such as this that we both exercise our wisdom and gain more. 

The second reading contains a comparison between ancient Israel’s experience of God on Mount Sinai and the experience of God on the transformed  Mount Zion at the end of time. The fire and thunder of the first experience discouraged access to the divine; not so the second experience. Furthermore, the efficacy of the blood of the innocent Christ is compared to the blood of the innocent Abel and not to that of the Passover sacrifice. Hence, the second experience is not so much a repudiation of the first covenant as it is a description of the final fulfillment accomplished by means of the second. 

Jesus tells a parable that addresses proper seating at banquets. This was a very important issue, for one’s place at table was indicative of the degree of honor with which the host regarded the guest. The story shows the folly in presuming importance at a public banquet, and it challenges the arrogance of those who think that they are more important than they really are. Jesus turns priorities upside down, criticizing the practice of inviting only those able to reciprocate in kind.

His disciples should give to those who are in need, the very people who can not advance one’s sense of honor, but who might in fact undermine one’s reputation. At this Sabbath dinner, Jesus first redefines what honorable behavior is, and then he redefines who are honored guests.