Lenten Reflection for Day 15
Date: March 9, 2012
Author: Rosemary Affeldt
Bible Passage: Luke 18:10–14 (NRSV)
10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’ 13 But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ 14 I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Reflection:
Prayer is a two way conversation, a communication, a way to connect with another. In Luke’s Gospel passage the Pharisee is having a one way communication, primarily boasting about himself, filled with pride and self righteousness. He is not seeking a response, therefore there’s no conversation. There is a talking to, not a talking with.
Where is the need for God in the Pharisee’s prayer?
The tax collector, beating his breast and crying out for forgiveness is truly seeking communication with God in his prayer, he is seeking God’s compassion, forgiveness and guidance. He wants to be heard and he seeks a response. He approaches his prayer with humility, respect and a humble heart. He asks…..waits and listens.
Unlike the Pharisee, the tax collector walks away as Jesus said, “Justified.”
Prayer:
Dear Lord help me to pray… whether out loud or in silence, by word or in deed, alone or with others. Let me come before you humbly, in the spirit of true communication, ready to listen for and hear your response. Amen.
