Reflections

(The group was led on Friday 29 August 2019 by Dr John Collins.  This is what he said in introduction…)

Reflection for Meditation Group

I was reflecting on the  gospel that will be read in many churches this Sunday. In it you will find these familiar words.

'When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take your seat in the place of honour. No, when you are a guest, make your way to the lowest place and sit there…

"Taking the place of honour" caters to the ego emphasizing  the important person I think I am, my mana, my perceived rights. It is a statement that we are in charge and this is what is going to happen. Whereas “Taking the lower place” is an act of faith and humility.

In meditation we put the ego to one side , letting everything go. Our heart and mind take the lowest seat and we are there in faith.

Ross reminded us some time ago that the word humility comes from the Latin Humus, which means the earth, the soil; reminding us that we are just a small part of God’s creation. This Sunday many Christian Churches begin a Season of Creation, a tradition which originated in the orthodox church .

Much of our historic attitude to the created world around us has been one of domination and exploitation. The consequences of this approach are becoming crystal clear with climate change, loss of many species and ongoing pollution of our land and our oceans. We have become aware that we have  been taking the place of honour in the created world and using our power thoughtlessly.  Sunday’s gospel calls us to humility, back to the Earth; and  faith which can translate into our caring engagement with all God’s creation . Letting go of our desire to control as we do in meditation is a good place to start.

John Collins