Saturday March 14th: Who am I?

“He spoke the parable to some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else”

Luke 18: 9-14

In today’s parable we meet two persons: The Pharisee, so focused on pointing out the sins of others that he is incapable of recognizing his own; and the tax collector, who stands humbly before God, aware of his sin and begging for mercy.

Having been involved in Parish Ministry for some time, I recognise myself in both these figures. Too many times, I sit on my “high horse of righteousness” with all the answers to what a Parishioner, Ministry Lead, or, dare I say, even Parish Priest should say, not say, or do. Yet there are other times when I see myself reflected in a gospel or sermon, and I go before God with a repentant heart, praying that I change my ways.

CREDI’s Book Read for “The Forgotten Way” by Matthew Kelly, coming on the heels of C.S. Lewis’ “Screwtape Letters,” has helped me focus more intentionally this Lent. I am more conscious of God’s call for me to be mindful of my thoughts, words, and judgment of others, and instead approach Him with humility, and others with loving kindness.

Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner