Luke 18:9-14 (NRSV)
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Verse 9He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: Verse 10"Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. Verse 11The 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. Verse 12I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.' Verse 13But 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!' Verse 14I 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."
Devotion
“Two men went up to the temple to pray. . .” Jesus began. If he had stopped his story there it would have been a good one. Two men. . .in the temple. . .praying. But, of course, there is more. As Jesus directs us to look closely at these two men, He wants us to look honestly at ourselves as well. As we read this parable, it is far too easy to self-righteously identify with the tax collector. However, as I view my prayer life, I realize that I am a bit of each of these two men's traits in me. At times I am grateful that I have avoided some of the pitfalls of life; at other times I clearly recognize my human condition and the reality that only the mercy of God can save me.
“Two men went up to the temple to pray.” Which one will you be like?
Prayer
Almighty God, help me this day to have a clear understanding of who I am and who you are. Be merciful to me, a sinner. Amen.