He spoke this parable to those
who were convinced of their righteousness, and despised all others. “Two men
went into the temple to pray; one was a Pharisee, and the other a tax
collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed to himself like this: ‘God, I thank
you, that I am not like others: extortionists, unrighteous, adulterers, or even
like this tax collector. I fast twice a week. I give tithes of all that I get.’
But the tax collector, standing far away, wouldn’t even lift his eyes to
heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell
you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; those who
exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be
exalted.”
Reflection
By saying true greatness
finds its origin in humility, Jesus sets an almost impossible standard. Those
who seek humility or any other goodness for the sake of their status in the
eyes of others end up with self-righteousness and separation from God. True
humility as seen in the prayer of the publican comes from brokenness. Where do
you see yourself in this parable? Where does God see you?
Prayer: Deliver me, Lord,
from the self-reflection which leads me to think my life is more righteous than
that of others.
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