February 14, 2024 Daily Dose of Discernment

Then He told this story to some who boasted of their virtue and scorned everyone else. (John 18:9)

The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector addresses the superior attitude of those who trust in their own righteousness and look down on others. There is nothing wrong with the Pharisee’s observance of fasting, tithing and other pious practices. What’s wrong is his assumption that God is a plays favorites and loves only those who are like him. The tax collector, on the other hand, humbly acknowledges he is an unworthy sinner and just asks for mercy.

Today, let us begin Lent right and realize we cannot fully have God as our Father if we cannot accept our neighbor as our brother. Jesus wants us to learn to love God and our neighbor, not engage in religious one-upmanship, not just for a season, but all our days.