“Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer[b]: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! 12 I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’
13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ 14 I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
- Luke 19.9-14
I can't resist the notion that Jesus might actually started this parable with a bit of sarcasm, almost if he was telling a joke, and then described probably someone he may have seen at temple one day. Classic. What a beautiful picture of authentic humility contrasted against pious vanities and arrogance. Traditionally this is true and Christ even goes on for those who maybe don't get to mention if you humble yourself you'll be exalted.
I get it.
But I think there's more we can take away from this story.
Maybe I'm being over-analytical, maybe it's CSI on the TV, but I think there is a small but amazing prayer, subtly woven into the posture of the tax collector. I read this and ask God that my heart would break for Him. I pray my heart would long for Him that I would dare not even lift my eyes to heaven.
I think how we pray is important. I think being self-aware and authentically confessing our sins is important. I think being in love with Someone so much that hurts is important too.
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