In the Gospel today Jesus tells a parable in which the first part of the parable is directed toward the guests attending the banquet.  Jesus noticed that many of the guests were trying to get the seats of honor.  Jesus puts it this way, “Everyone who exalts themselves will be humbled, and he who humbles themselves will be exalted.”

 In the last section of the parable, Jesus talks about who should be invited to the banquet.  He says that those who have no way to return the favor should be invited.  Our motivation for doing good should be based on the Lord’s call to serve.  God will reward our good works.  Our lives and our hope of eternal life are gifts of a merciful God.