Today’s scripture: Luke 18:9-14 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Zier):
Who is it that you look down on? Dislike? Despise?
Looking down on others or pointing out others’ faults is so easy, yet we may look at ourselves and claim, “I don’t do that.” Back in the 80’s (yes, I am getting old!), high profile television evangelists would get me upset because of the messages proclaiming who God loved or did not love, or accepted. I grew to despise them. But when I started to look at myself and what I was doing, I realized quickly that I was doing no better. “They were demeaning others, not giving others a chance, and causing spiritual abuse to my community…. Of course I was justified!” Somehow, it seems I thought I was justified, but it seems we all can think that way. Who we look down on during the course of our lives can change.
In this parable, Jesus warns us about the danger of despising others and that contempt is more than being mean-spirited; it springs from the assumption that one is qualified to sit in the seat of judgment and to ascertain who is good and just. It is not my job or anyone’s to pass judgment on who is worthy or not. God loves us all — equally!
Jesus uses two different approaches toward prayer to show the contrast. The Pharisee, prideful in his religious practice, has the attitude: “I always do what God wants me to do, I never fail; I’m not one of those.” The Pharisee takes prideful religious practices and self-exalts at the expense of others. His boastful prayer consisted of what he does, how he is always doing what God wants, and his disdain for others in trying to justify himself. The so-called “despised” tax collector humbled himself before God and begged for mercy. He sought God with humility.
This parable has two sides; pride and humility. It shows that pride leads to illusion and self-deception. Even if we think, “I am not prideful,” what do our words and actions say? Communication is 80% non verbal, so what are you saying with your actions? Humility helps us to see ourselves as we really are, and it allows us to receive God’s grace and mercy. How well do you really see yourself?
A scripture to remember — “I [God] dwell in the high and holy place, and also with those who are contrite and humble in spirit” (Isaiah 57:15; NRSV). God dwells with the humble of heart. Those that recognize their own shortcomings and acknowledge God’s mercy and saving grace are allowing God in their heart. How does God hear us if we despise others? What kind of heart do we have, and what does this do to our soul or inner being? Do you humbly seek God’s mercy and do you show mercy to others, especially those you find difficult to love and to forgive?
Thought for the Day (Prayer): God, I invite you into my soul. I want your love to fill my thoughts and actions. I want to do what is pleasing to you. Help me. Show me where I lack charity, mercy, and forgiveness; and help me to be generous in giving to others what you have given to me.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.