Please read the Scripture passage before the homily.
Thinks about how many times we take on airs. We have said, we have heard others say, that so-and-so thinks he or she is God Almighty. We like the limelight and places of honor that we supposedly deserve. We are often full of ourselves.
Once upon a time, there was one who could have claimed to be someone important. That person, however, gave up his high-caliber credit card, and worked long hours making furniture for others. He gave up his huge bank account and flashy Cadillac chariot and stayed in town working his business. He was finally accused of treason and executed. Then something spectacular happened. He stopped being dead and rose to new life and God gave him divine airs and proclaimed him the Just One, the King and Lord of all.
Jesus did not exalt himself, but he was exalted by others. Some exalted him onto a cross to die, but God exalted him to God’s own place and proclaimed him Lord to live. The One exalted onto to the cross used the cross to ascend to God’s own place. The death of a criminal gave birth to the Lord of all creation. The criminal human became the majesty of God.
It is only when we live a life of lowliness that we find the hidden elevator to God’s glory.