Linda Buskirk is active in stewardship ministry for her faith community in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and works with congregations through Core Capital Campaigns. This is her observation of tomorrow's Gospel lesson.
“All who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Luke 18:9-14
The Pharisee in tomorrow's Gospel parable stands up in the temple to pray. He reminds God that he is not like other people who fall short of God’s expectations. He recounts to God his best behaviors - fasting and tithing.
When I envision this scene, I can’t help but imagine the Pharisee’s voice sounding like songwriter Mac Davis singing his hit, “Oh Lord it’s hard to be humble, When you’re perfect in every way; I can’t wait to look in the mirror, Cause I get better looking each day…”
Why is Jesus concerned about our level of humility even when our faithful actions are good? Certainly we should strive to be good, to give generously, and to avoid sin. Yet it is the sinful person in this story who Jesus sets as our example.
In the parable, the first person is giving a speech to God. The second person is opening up his heart, admitting his weakness, and asking for God’s merciful acceptance. He is humble enough to acknowledge that God is in control.
Such humility is a path toward a deeper, trusting relationship with God. Trusting God requires admitting that we need God. It means accepting that we are not so self-reliant that we can figure out all the answers, successfully battle every demon, and control our own destiny. Those are false narratives anyway. Humility keeps us honest.
Jesus’ time on earth exemplifies one of the most beautiful realities of our faith: Our Creator craves a close relationship with each of us. We don’t have to be perfect in every way. We just need to love and trust that what God provides will be more than enough
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