^“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.” Luke 18:9-14

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” (C. S. Lewis)

The Pharisee’s contempt for the tax collector is quite noticeable – actually his contempt for all “sinners” is quite noticeable, of which he does not consider himself. He thanks G-d that he is not like the others, those sinners, rather than praying for the “others”. His prayer is self-righteous, his attitude the same. C. S. Lewis names the disease of pride quite clearly, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.”

Is it true: Grace is best be received by those who have learned empathy for others? I do believe it is true: the merciful receive mercy, and those who forgive can be forgiven. The Pharisee had enough religion, but he focused it on ritual – fasting and giving a tenth. Somewhere along the line he missed out on humility and loving his neighbor. People who are aware of their own need for forgiveness and grace will not be able to have contempt for others.

Pastor Dave