Humble

Jesus 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

Loving Creator, you abide with us

knowing our needs and our wants

surrounding us with the gift of beauty 

in  the turning of every time and  season.

We often think ourselves better than others

we overlook the needs of our neighbors

we are caught up in our own concerns

we fail to see you walking with the poor.

Yet you taught by telling the stories

of the pompous and the outcasts

showing us that humble and honest

are the best ways to walk life's path.

Help us, dear lord, to face every day

with humble and honest hearts

rising up so that we might serve

rejoicing in the gifts of your love.