Today we are reading Luke 18. In this chapter we read about the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. “He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat 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 everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.””
Luke 18:9-14 ESV The Pharisee clearly despised the Tax Collector. Who do you despise? Humility is simple and profound. It stands out in stark contrast to the insecure ramblings of arrogance. When do you find yourself tempted to boast? How does that work out? Who would you rather have for a friend, the Pharisee or the Tax Collector? May God be pleased with the meditations of your heart. Pastor Tim
