SCRIPTURE NOTE
Today’s readings continue the theme of prayer. In a society where money and power are everything, the ‘little people’ don’t have a chance. The First Reading states that God treats all people fairly. He shows no partiality to the rich and powerful. He listens to the humble prayer of the just and the lowly.
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax-collector makes the same point even more forcefully. The proud Pharisee is relying on his good works. Because of these he thinks that God owes him salvation. The tax-collector has nothing to rely on. He knows he’s a sinner. So he throws himself on the mercy of God. His words are few, but the attitude of his heart makes him pleasing to God. His humble prayer wins him forgiveness.
The parable was aimed at those who prided themselves on being virtuous and despised everyone else. Although he was boastful, the Pharisee was not a hypocrite. His problem was that he had no concept of his need of God or grace or forgiveness.
With love and prayers
Fr Michael