Ash Wednesday 2022

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

Wondrous Creator, we are made in your image

in our diversity is your presence understood

Each family and tribe is fully a part of you

and you are with the suffering in our world.

You call us all to be humble and servants

yet too often we grasp for power and control

we worry about economy and property

and forget what how selfish actions hurt.

You told a story to help draw a picture

for the disciples then and for us now

that our attitudes and behavior matter

and we need to be humble so that others live.

In this time of war, Lord, let us be peace

in this time of sorrow, let us bring your comfort

let our hearts be humble for your sake

and let us be your hands and heart today. Amen.