God Gives Grace to the Humble!

"For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the man who humbles himself will be exalted," (Lk 18:14)

In the Gospel, the Pharisee was comparing himself to other people while the tax collector was comparing himself with God.

We should judge our goodness and holiness by looking at God, not by looking at those around us. Often, we think, “I am not as bad as most people.”

WHY DID YOU COME TO CHURCH? 

a) To be seen!

b) To seek God!

To Be Seen!

The Pharisee was truly good and holy person who kept the law faithfully, fulfilling every law and even went beyond what the Law required. He was a model of what we would call a living saint. Obviously, the Pharisee was at the temple for others to see how good he was. It was a public performance and religious show. He was there to be seen by all and to be heard by the other worshipers.

When you are preparing to come to Church, are you thinking more about who will be there to see you or you come to Church to impress others the way you pray rather than your personal conversion and your connection with God.

To Seek God?

Tax collectors were generally regarded as people of low moral standards. Because tax collectors worked for the pagan Romans, mixed up with them and constantly handled unclean money. He didn’t focus on the other people but he focused on his own sinfulness. He beat his breast and said, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” This is the most moving of all prayers, and one that God cannot fail to hear.

Why do you go to Church every Sunday? Is it just your habit, a part of your weekend routine? Perhaps you came because your parents or your spouse pressured you to come. Or maybe you feel guilty if you don’t come. Or you come seeking to connect with God that one day you might be abled to get into heaven?

When we come to God's house, we should be primarily concerned about seeking God’s face. 

When we have this attitude, I am sure we can go home reconciled and at peace with God and with one another.

"God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble," (1 Peter 5:5).