Getting Ready

How often do we compare ourselves to those we see who are less in our eyes?

Jesus told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, `God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, `God, be merciful to me, a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted." - Luke 18:9–14

The Pharisee in this parable is made to sound self-righteous.  He brags as he prays.  Perhaps he is proud of his commitment to God, thinking that is the way to get God's attention.

God knows what he does and doesn't do, so there is really no reason to pray a list of accomplishments for Him.

Now the tax collector was different.  He was not just humble, choosing not to look up.  He was sorry for the things he had done.

We could argue that the Pharisee did not have things to feel sorry for.  I am sure there are times we feel we are doing all the right things, that we are good soldiers of the faith.  But if we manage to get an audience before God, should we report our resume of accomplishments, or should we come seeking mercy?

We are so conditioned to self-promote that it comes naturally, even in our prayers.  

Thank you, Lord, for blessing me with greatness?  Thank you for making me better than the next guy?

It isn't a job interview.  It is a prayer for God's blessing, God's help, God's mercy.  And if we feel we don't need God's mercy, perhaps we aren't ready to come before Him.

That is what Lent is all about, getting ready.

The tax collector was ready.  He had given it some thought and realized his life could be better, his relationship with God could be better.  And so, he humbled himself and was exalted.

More to come...