Jesus had been invited to a Pharisee’s house for a meal on the Sabbath.  He had healed a man physically with the teaching of keeping God’s Law and the intent behind His Law.  (Luke 14:1-6)

Then Jesus gave an example of how to conduct one’s self at a dinner party or in any social situation with the teaching: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”  (Luke 14:11)

Jesus did not stop there; He turned to the host and said:
(NASB) Luke 14:12-14 “…‘When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, otherwise they may also invite you in return and that will be your repayment.
13 ‘But when you give a reception, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,
14 and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.’”

One question which can be asked: Whose recognition do I desire – people’s recognition or the living God’s?

Either we receive accolades from people and that is our payment or the payment is delayed until the resurrection of the righteous.

As this new year of 2014 is beginning ~ what will be your expectation as a follower of Christ?  Will you expect to be paid your just recognition this year or in the future of eternity?

Note: both 2014 and eternity are factual and both are real!