Charles Spurgeon Commentary Luke 14:10

"But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest place; that when he that hath bidden thee cometh, he may say to thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have glory in the presence of all that sit at meat with thee." — Luke 14:10 (ASV)

Note that our Savior was not just then talking to his disciples, or else he would have given more spiritual reasons for his advice; but, speaking to the people who were gathered as guests at the Pharisee's house, he appealed to them with an argument suitable to them. We may, however, extract the marrow from this bone.

Let us not covet the highest place; let us not desire honor among men. In the Church of God the way upward is downward. The one who does the lowest work will have the highest honor. Our Master washed his disciples' feet, and we are never more honored than when we are permitted to imitate his example.