Humility

Humility

In his 18th chapter, Luke records one of Jesus’ parables about two men who went to the temple for prayer. One, a Pharisee, looked down on others and boasted to God about his dedication. The other, a tax collector, looked down on his own sinfulness and prayed for forgiveness. While striking his chest with lament he said, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” (Luke 18:13) Do you know which one went home with his prayers answered? You guessed it—the humble tax collector who approached God with contrition. How about you? Which person more accurately describes your prayer life lately? Is it a source of pride to be better than others, or is it marked by moments of humility and confession? Keep in mind which one God answers. Now that’s something to pray about!