He spoke also this parable to certain people who were convinced of their own righteousness, and who despised all others. "Two men went up into the temple to pray; one was a Pharisee, and the other was a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed to himself like this: 'God, I thank you, that I am not like the rest of men, extortioners, unrighteous, 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 away, wouldn't 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 he who humbles himself will be exalted."
—St. Luke 18:9-14,
What, or who, does this sound like?
You or I, maybe?
Or, is it "the other guy"?
Are we "judging" others, but not ourselves?
The Publican (tax collector) couldn't even bring himself to lift his eyes in the presence of the Holy of Holies, but begged for forgiveness for his sins.
The Pharisee praised himself and despised the Publican. Whatever good works that the Pharisee might do, or might have done, mean nothing without charity (St. Paul).
The humility of the hated Publican is an example of the first step to holiness, for without humility, pride will surely get in the way of our journey to the New Jerusalem, and eternal life...
God knows...
We just celebrated the birth of the Savior, and now, as the New Year approaches, we are filled with ideas of making "resolutions" to make things better in our lives, whether to lose weight, or more seriously, to sin less and love more: our families and our neighbors, that is...
Not an easy task these days, as we are bombarded with negative news almost on a daily basis, but it is important to keep in mind that we are not in control of world events: it is Providence that directs the fate of mankind. It's just that we have to respond in the proper manner if we are to have any chance to improve spiritually and morally, and finish the race and gain the crown of victory (again, St. Paul).
So, let's see if we can make this resolution: to know, love, and serve God in this life, and be happy with Him in the next. Love our families and our neighbors, by doing so, we fulfill the two great Commandments upon which is based all the law and the prophets...
Pray for our country...
Viva Cristo Rey! Fr. Miguel Pro, pray for us...
Gene DeLalla
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