We all need God's Mercy!

In this week’s Gospel (Luke 18:9-14), Jesus addresses his parable to all who consider themselves righteous and superior to those they consider morally deficient compared to themselves.  Having recently completed Faith Formation’s series on the Parables, I appreciate that while the parables teach a universal truth, how this truth is perceived can be seen from various perspectives, e.g. from the perspective of a first century Jew and from a modern day Catholic.  Additionally, upon further reflection, Parables often offer a deeper meaning.  

In the Parable, in order to demonstrate how self-righteousness and feelings of superiority are contrary to God’s wishes, Jesus uses an extreme comparison.  The Pharisee who is self-righteous and considers himself superior to the tax collector would probably be also considered by virtue of his position in the religious hierarchy superior by the general Jewish population.  The tax collector, on the other hand, would have been reviled and probably considered morally inferior by Jesus’ audience.  The Pharisee thanks Jesus for making him superior and lists his positive attributes which may exceed the minimum strictures. In fact he may be speaking to himself when comparing his life to the tax collector. He does not request mercy nor asks God for anything.  This indicates that he feels in control and does not need God. It also shows that he has no understanding of the reality of humility.

In contrast, the tax collector recognizes that he is a sinner and places himself at the mercy of God.  Jesus teaches that this prayer is acceptable to God.  Unlike the Pharisee, the tax collector understands that he is dependent on God’s mercy.  While the Pharisee’s conduct was laudable (fasting, paying tithes, etc.) he appears to think that he is not in need of God’s forgiveness.  God knows his deeds. The Pharisee does not need to list them for Him. He exalts himself with words while the tax collector humbles himself and understands the reality that we need God.  The fact that Jesus states that the acceptable prayer was the one the tax collector prayed demonstrates that, among other things, God’s judgement is not based on appearances or actions. God knows what is in a person’s heart.  

Although in today’s world tax collectors are not quite as reviled as in the first century and there aren’t many Pharisees around, I believe that we still need to guard against comparing ourselves to others either favorably or unfavorably and avoid any feelings of pride when we perform good works, which we are mandated to do anyway.  At times such comparisons or feelings may be subtle and may manifest themselves in anger. For me I know I am particularly vulnerable when listening to politicians, celebrities, or athletes espousing views that are contrary to Catholic teachings.  I need God’s help to keep in mind that only He knows what is in their heart and what really causes them to believe what they proclaim.  This is especially trying when they claim to be Catholic. Consequently, I am always in need of God’s mercy.      

Reflection by Robert Galibois