The thought of opposites kept coming to mind as I pondered and prayed over
this article. There is one story that Jesus told that stands out from so many others.
It is the story of the Pharisee and the publican or tax collector. You can find it
in Luke 18:9-14. Without going into the full detail of the parable, we all need to
ask ourselves this simple question: How do I approach God in my times of
worship?
We are presented with quite a contrast within this parable. The Pharisee
approaches God from a place of righteousness. In other words, he seems to have it
all together and he wants those around him to know it. With a puffed up attitude
he begins to proudly exclaim that he is glad that he is not like that publican or tax
collector. Allow me to put it in today’s words. He attends church regularly. He
gives a tithe or more to the church. He willingly accepts any responsibility or
mission task that he is asked to do. This seems like the ideal church member if
there is truly such a person.
Remember my question: How do I approach God in my times of worship?
Now, let’s look at the other side, that is, from the perspective of the publican
or tax collector. The tax collector was beating his chest and would not even look up
toward the heavens. “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”
Again, consider: How do I approach God in my times of worship?
