A man who had recently filed for bankruptcy was asked how it happened that he needed to take such an action. He said, “It happened very gradually. And then very suddenly.”
We often think we are safe from the temptation to be like the Pharisee in today’s Gospel (Luke 18, 9-14). We think of ourselves as being unable to be proud in bragging about our achievements and giving no credit to God, like the Pharisee. But, how often do we seek praise and recognition from others for our accomplishments? How often do we degrade others with insensitive comments, hurting their feelings? Bad habits like these can grow very gradually and then take over our lives very suddenly!
In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges us to imitate the humble tax collector by acknowledging our total dependence on God and His grace for all our achievements and blessings. He invites us to acknowledge our sinfulness and ask for His pardon and forgiveness. He encourages us to pray for God’s continued daily support through His grace. And His hope is that we will become more sensitive to the needs and feelings of others, serving Him, in them, as best as we can.
Food for Thought: A news reporter once asked St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) if she had ever been tempted to be proud. Mother Theresa retorted with a smile, “Proud about what?” The reporter replied, “Why, about the wonderful things you have been doing for the poorest of the poor!” Then came her answer, “I never knew I had done anything, because it was God who worked in and through me, my Sisters, and all of our helpers.” True humility sets the Saints apart! Pray to become a Saint … don’t settle for anything less.
