God, be merciful to me, a sinner!

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]

Lord, this parable speaks to me so deeply about my need for your mercy in my life. So often I pray in the attitude of the Pharisee. Help me Lord to pray like the tax collector. Cause humility to rise in my soul when I pray for myself and for others. We so need your mercy Lord. Remove the blinders of pride that prevent us from seeing that need. And fill us with your mercy and compassion for those all around us.

Amen

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