Luke 18:9-14
9 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: 10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
11 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. 12 I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’
13 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!’
14 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.”
"God, be merciful to me, a sinner!"
We are all called to join together in God's presence to reciprocate His Love, to praise His Name, to thank Him for His many graces, and to renew holiness with each other.
Two major principles should inspire our prayers in God's presence, as proclaimed by the epistles of St. Paul and St. James.
1) "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
2) "Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” James 5:16
Today's Gospel invites us to check our prayers in His presence and with each other.
The Pharisee is sure of his righteousness. He mentions how many times he fasts and how much he offers. He considers himself better than others like tax collectors, whom the crowd considers sinners because they work for the occupying power. The Pharisee would like God to acknowledge and certify his superiority and merits. He is proud of himself as he feels committed to the commandments of the law of Moses and to the ordinances of the Pharisees, who expanded the Ten Commandments up to 613 commandments.
The tax collector or Publican is willing to renew his gratitude in God's presence. With humility, keeping distance from the altar, through silence and repentance, without comparing himself to others, he is confessing his sins and asking for God's mercy.
The Lord tells us about God's response to both of them. The proud one, comparing himself with others and despising them even more, returns home unjustified, and even worse by adding more sins to his account.
The prayer of the humble one who fears God, is willing to repent and confess his sins, is accepted by the Lord. He returns home peacefully and joyfully renewed.
Take a few moments to think about our private, family prayers and our Church prayers. How do we listen and speak to God? How do we pray for our loved ones and fellow church members? Do we consider ourselves superior or better than others?
After Church celebrations and services, do we feel more peaceful and joyful because we have renewed our love with God and our links with the Church members?
To whom of the two men do I feel closer - to the Pharisee or to the Publican? Let us confess our sins to almighty God and ask for His Mercy. Amen.