“Yahoo! I beat Arnie!” I shouted while pumping fists into the air and performing a version of the funky chicken! (Wouldn’t you like to see that?) Hey, it’s not every day you beat Arnold Palmer!!!

Are you getting sick and tired of my arrogant boasting yet? Of course you are even if this crazy story is true and it is… sort of. But here is the point. When you hear someone sound off like this… do you have an urge to hug him… or do you want to slug her? No one enjoys the company of a bragger or a famous namedropper. Yet, could a little of this obnoxious tendency be in all of us?

When Jesus noticed that all who had come to the dinner were trying to sit near the head of the table, he gave them this advice: "If you are invited to a wedding feast, don't always head for the best seat. What if someone more respected than you has also been invited? The host will say, 'Let this person sit here instead.' Then you will be embarrassed and will have to take whatever seat is left at the foot of the table! "Do this instead—sit at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, 'Friend, we have a better place than this for you!' Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. For the proud will be humbled, but the humble will be honored." (Luke14: 7-11)

Jesus is talking about more than good table manners, isn't he? The most important people at a wedding feast are, of course, the bride and groom. Not you! What would a wedding be without them? By maneuvering to get the best seat you detract from the couple's happy moment and look like an insensitive jerk or worse. We see it in others, but do we notice it in ourselves? Not always.

By trying so hard to beat Arnold Palmer, I missed the opportunity to enjoy his company and admire his unique abilities. Likewise, our arrogant attitude detracts from the God we all claim to serve and prevents us from appreciating and learning from the immensely talented people who surround us.

Our society applauds a “win at any cost” mentality and expects us to revel in the victory. Yet, Jesus clearly demonstrates another answer. It is in our humility not our boasting that we truly discover God.

Now Larry, what is the truth about that celebrity golf match? (Pause) Did you know that it is simply amazing what computers can do? They can simulate almost anything… even a game of golf. Yes, I did play Arnold Palmer at Harbourtown, but from the comfort of my office and computer screen. Sorry!     

Just think, in one story, I've been exposed as arrogant, boasting and slightly deceitful. At one time or another haven't we all? Maybe this is why we need God and from the sound of my bragging… me too.