Luke 18: 9 “Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others.”
Dear God,
On this new day, there is much bird life making their raucous, joyous greetings toward the new day. I of the human race however have been quiet of such greetings. Please fill my mind and heart with songs and praise to You, for I am thankful for much, but above all, that I was created and that You continue to give me life, and a knowledge of You that is wrapped around and full all through with tender love and mercy.
As I contemplate the words of Jesus in Luke 18: 9 – 14, I desire to have an open and willing heart to change my attitudes and mindset, as needed to be Your true humble, believing , fully receptive child. In addressing our selfishness and self-occupation, Jesus gives the example of two men praying, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee had an exalted opinion of himself as God’s man and prayed, V11, 12 “………’God I thank You that I am not like other men-extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all I possess.’”
While the Pharisee was in such a prideful opinion of himself and thought he could earn points with You by listing them, he could not be reached by You speaking to his heart and mind, about the needs in his spiritual life. The tax collector that he had judged as not being nearly as worthy as himself, in fact felt his sinful need before You his God, to such a degree, V 13 “And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God be merciful to me a sinner!’” His humble attitude in prayer about his need, allowed You to speak to his mind, because of his humility and recognition of his need, and he was ready to listen and receive. Jesus then told His listeners, about how the two different types of prayers are received in heaven, v 14 “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
How easy it is for us sinful humans to think we are better than others, judging ourselves upon performance, whilst all the while forgetting that You look upon the heart. Please bring me to Yourself, and reveal to me my heart need, so that I really can pray to You in a humble teachable spirit.
Amen