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
And just like that, the season has turned. From partying and dancing to pancakes, we leave behind Epiphany and fall hard into Lent. There is no gentle turning but an abrupt, earth-shattering change of heart and spirit. Still in the midst of winter with only a hint of spring on the wind, we turn and face our failure and mortality, opening our hearts anew and leaning into Jesus. It is not so much a physical turning but rather an inner about face of our hearts and souls.
Tender Creator, you know our weaknesses
you watch each of us with compassion
understanding our mistakes and failures
loving us completely despite it all.
We do not like tot turn or be changed
we will defend our idiotic thoughts
we will fight for our right to be very wrong
and look down our noses at the humble.
Lord, help us to be meek and humble
truly living a holy Lent by our service
make us willing to seek your mercy
so that all our hurting world might be renewed. Amen.
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