Luke 17:9-14
This parable exposed arrogance and self-righteousness in many religious people perceiving
themselves as better than others. A Pharisee stood thanking God he was not like other sinners or even
this tax collector who came to pray. His prayer asserted his religious activity and generosity. However,
the tax collector stood far away, unwilling to look up, pounding his chest, and pleading to God for mercy
on his admitted sinful state. Jesus said the tax collector went home justified, but the Pharisee did not.
Then He said, “…for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be
exalted.” (14b). Do we come to God asserting our image or in humility asserting Him? Our perspective
will determine our posture.