Greetings on this the Saturday of the Third Week of Lent
Readings: Hosea 6:1-6; Psalm 51:3-4, 18-19, 20-21ab; Luke 18:9-14
Summary
The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.
He then addressed this parable to those who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else (Lk 18:9).
Reflection
The tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed, ‘O God, be merciful to me a sinner.’ I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former (Lk 18:13-14b).
Personal Reflection
We have all become like something unclean, all our just deeds are like polluted rags; We have all withered like leaves, and our crimes carry us away like the wind (Isa 64:5).
We have but one true power. The autonomy to seek the face of God in humility and contrition. All self-righteousness and false piety are anathema to the Lord.
My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a contrite, humbled heart, O God, you will not scorn (Ps 51:19).
Come, let us return to the LORD,
it is he who has rent, but he will heal us;
he has struck us, but he will bind our wounds.
(Hos 6:1)
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031426.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry