Jesus told of two men who went to the temple to pray. The first, a Pharisee (think highly trained religious leader), bowed his head and thanked God that he was more spiritual than other men. Now, I pay attention to how Pharisees acted, because I too am a religious leader, highly trained in theology and ministry. These guys are my tribe, as unfortunate as such may be.

The other man, a tax collector, stood in the back of the room with lowered eyes. He beat his chest with his fist and prayed, God, be merciful to me, a sinner.

Which one received the mercy they needed? Jesus tells us the tax collector went home in good standing with God. The Pharisee sauntered over to his buddies, still lost as a goose.

Appeals for mercy (compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm) pervade the Scriptures. We all need the compassion of the Lord on a daily basis. Although followers of Jesus can rest in his salvation, we remain sinful creatures. God’s mercies never go out of style.

The tax collector’s prayer points me towards my need for God’s overwhelming mercy, as well as pricking me about my inclination to look down on others from my perch of exalted religiosity.

So I’m trying to create a habit, to remember to pray this prayer throughout the day: God, be merciful to me, a sinner. Perhaps you’d like to join me?

Luke 18:9-14

Photo by Amaury Gutierrez