Ash Wednesday

Luke 18:9-14

The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector is a wonderful contrast in pride and humility. In these verses we are told the story of the Pharisee who is extremely prideful with regard to his spiritual life.  He tithes, fasts and thanks God that he is not like other men who are unjust and adulterers. He is especially thankful that he is unlike the hated tax collectors. When the Pharisee prays, it is easy for us to see the content of his heart.  He trusts in his own abilities rather than putting his trust in God where it belongs.  His great regard for himself along with his contempt and disregard for others is obvious. He doesn’t really need God at all!

On the other hand, we are told of the Tax Collector who stands back when he prays and cannot even raise his eyes toward heaven.  He beats his chest and asks God to be merciful to him, a lowly sinner. Such simple and childlike faith and trust is what God desires of us. The Tax Collector shows us in his humbleness a contrite heart and what it takes to be right with God. He knows that he is a sinner.

During his earthly life Jesus spoke 32 parables. They are wonderful illustrations designed to teach us a spiritual truth or an  important biblical principal. After reading this particular Parable, I am reminded that as I observe this season of prayer and repentance, it is important, when praying, to understand that it is to God that I am praying and not use that sacred time with him unwisely. I hope also to remember that it is not what I have earned in my spiritual journey that really matters; it is the understanding that all I am and have come from Him. It is in Him that I should put my trust and faith, not in myself.

Written by Debbie Powell