“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11, NIV)
Humility.
Jesus tells us that we ought not to exalt ourselves — that is, seek a status that is higher, larger, or more powerful, for our own benefit and glorification (e. g., time in the spotlight).
Our ego seeks such elevations, but the reality is that someone else is always smarter, more prominent, or more powerful than we are.
In the context of today’s scripture, Jesus challenges us to resist the temptation of self-promotion and self-elevation so common in our society; and instead, take our place with the least and the last among us. Truly humble individuals are always recognized, in God’s time, with a public promotion that no one can take-back or take-away. – Luther