The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

The Pharisee and the Tax Collector

Ref. Luke 19: 9-14

I tell you the truth. This man rather than the other went home justified before God. For anyone who exalt himself will be humbled and he who humble himself will be exalted.

Two men went up to the temple to pray. One pharisee and the other tax collector. The pharisee stood up and prayed about himself. " God, I thank you that i am not other like men- robbers, evil doers, adulterers,-even this tax collector. I fast twice a week and gave tenth of all i get.

But the tax collector stood up at the distance. He would not even looked up heaven, but beat his heart and said, " Lord.. have mercy on me a sinner."

I tell you the truth this man rather than the other justified before God. For anyone who exalt himself will be humbled and He who humble himself will be exalted.

This story, Jesus wants to emphasize the sharp contrast between the proud and humble. It shows how God displeases those who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on anybody else. As a followers of Christ we must put it down to our hearts the attitude of HUMILITY.

The Lord wants us to test our own action without comparing ourselves with somebody else. For each one carry its own load. ( Gal. 6:4 )

He wants to approach us to his Holy presence with the right attitude. The wisdom of humility has been taught in the bible for several times to remind us that we are justified with Christ and set aside for His purpose not because we are good person but because of God's unfaling love and mercy for us.

My Prayer:

Lord thank you for the lesson that you taught to me. That reminds me that all good deeds are nothing before your sights. But teach me to become more humble and considerate to others. Develop within me the attitude of humility and deeper understanding that we become what we are now because of what you have done. Your Mercy and Love cover the multitude of sins. May your love cover me today.. Amen.