Today both the first reading and the Gospel speak of humility and diligence in our lives. In those texts of scripture we are cautioned to be careful how we carry ourselves about. The first reading reminds us to conduct our affairs and business in humility and gentleness and we would be loved more than a lavish giver. It goes on to say that the greater we are, the more we should behave humbly. It adds that, this is how we would find favor with God.

Then it cautions us to not be overly inquisitive.  For by being so inquisitive, and trying to pry in things greater than we would understand, we may make mistakes, we may pride ourselves in knowing too much, more than God, and may think we are the end to ourselves.  It says the heart of a sensible person will keep reflecting on parables and proverbs, and a wise person finds joy in paying attention to the Lord, and that is what we are called to.
In almost the same line of thought, Jesus' teaching in the Gospel reflects on how we should be gentle and prudent in conduct and manner when it comes to choosing places of honor.  He made it clear that humiliation will be the lot of those that exalt themselves.  He said those who in prudence choose the path of humility would be recognized and highly esteemed in the presence of all.  This is the type of life God calls every person to.  Unfortunately for us, the world turns a blind eye to this type of life.  It glorifies arrogance and empty pride and turns away from humility.  It sneers at the humble and the gentle and calls them cowards.  This is the sickness of the proud.