“Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Luke 18:10-14
The Pharisees were highly religious and commanded a great deal of respect from their peers. The publicans were Jews who collected taxes on behalf of the Roman government, and they were known for taking a hefty portion of the money they collected for themselves. Because of this, the publicans were hated and despised. In this parable, Jesus helps us to see the importance of humility before God. The Pharisee thought he was a very good person, but the Lord would not hear him. In contrast, the publican saw himself as totally unworthy. He stood far away from the temple because he thought that he was not good enough to even get close to it. He kept his head bowed as he prayed, admitted that he was a sinner, and asked God for mercy. Jesus said that this man went to his house justified rather than the other. Which one of these men can you relate to the best? Are you proud or humble in your approach to God?
Morning: II Samuel 19-20
Evening: Luke 18:1-23