Reading: Luke 18:9-14
He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” Reflection The word humble comes from the root “humus” which means dirt. Primarily, it signifies “low-lying.” It is mentioned often in the Bible, including the famous passage from Micah that tells us that we should walk humbly with our God. Christians often speak of the mystery of faith being comprised of paradoxes. A paradox is one or more statements that seem to contradict each other but when placed together are true. Like kneading bread. You work hard to flatten the dough. The flatter you get it, the higher it will rise. So it is with being humble. The more we empty ourselves in love and service, the more we are filled with peace, joy, and hope. By humbling ourselves, we will be filled. We sing a song at camp called “Humble Thyself.” In that song we are reminded that God will lift us up higher and higher if we are humble. God makes many promises to those who are humble. And Jesus set a good example of humility when he was here on earth. How will you be humble today? --Chad Hershberger Prayer Lord, you gave us a prime example of humility in Jesus Christ. Grant that we might be more like Jesus, emptying ourselves, and living our lives in fullness in you. Amen
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