Twenty-second Ordinary

Luke 14: 10 – 11

Jesus continued, “When you’re invited to dinner, go and sit at the last place. Then when the host comes he may well say, ‘Friend, come up to the front’. That will give the dinner guests something to talk about! What I’m saying is, if you walk around with your nose in the air, you’re going to end up flat on your face. But if you’re content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself.”

Luke offers a powerful challenge to educators in Catholic schools today. In a world where success is often measured by achievement, status, and recognition, this gospel reminder calls us to reconsider the kind of leadership we embody in our classrooms and communities.

Being a teacher is about so much more than delivering content; it is about guiding young people with humility, patience, and a spirit of service. True leadership is not about holding authority over others but about lifting others up by placing their needs before our own. Humility is not about weakness – it is the strength to listen deeply, to serve willingly, and to learn alongside our students. In doing so, we create inclusive spaces where every child feels valued and respected, where their voices matter, and where they can grow not just academically but as compassionate human beings.

In the pressures of the modern educational environment – from assessment demands to ever-changing technology – there is a real temptation to chase personal success or recognition. But Luke’s words remind us that the path to being truly ‘exalted’ is through humbling ourselves first. This means prioritising the wellbeing of our students over our own ambitions, collaborating authentically with colleagues, and modelling servant leadership in every action we take. It challenges us to reflect on our motivations daily: Are we seeking praise, or are we committed to genuinely serving those in our care?

The call is clear – our greatest impact as educators will come not from titles or accolades but from the quiet, consistent acts of humility and service that honour the dignity of every person we teach. By leading with humility, we prepare our students to be not only knowledgeable but also empathetic and courageous citizens who can contribute meaningfully to the world. Let us embrace this gospel truth and be educators who are truly exalted by first humbling ourselves, living our faith through the way we teach, serve, and lead.