Jesus told the parable of two men who went to the Temple to pray. One of these men was a Pharisee who did not go to the temple to pray to God but to announce to all within earshot how good he was. Whereas the other man who was a tax collector recognizes his sin and begs for mercy as he prays to God. This seemed to ignore the Pharisee, moving him to differentiate himself from other men stating how many times a week he fasted and how much money he gave to the church! What does this say about this person, was he more in tune with his own self-importance?
Self-righteousness is dangerous. It leads to pride, causes a person to despise others, and prevents him or her from learning anything from God. A self-righteous person thinks that he is righteous because of his own efforts; he is not conscious of the sinful nature within him, his own unworthiness, and his constant need for God's help, mercy, and grace. Because of his exceptional acts of piety and outward goodness, he feels that he does not need the grace of God.
The tax collector, on the other hand, was deeply conscious of his sin and guilt, and in true repentance turned from sin to God for forgiveness and mercy. The tax collector's prayer should be our prayer because we all need God's mercy every day. He typifies the true child of God.
Don't let pride in your achievements cut you off from God.
Blessings,
Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes
LAB | The word for you today
