3RD WEEK OF LENT

O God, be merciful to me a sinner.

The comparison trap—it might seem like a modern problem, thanks to the internet. But Jesus’ parable today tells us that it is actually an age-old dilemma.

Have you found yourself saying, “There is no way I would commit that sin if I were him (or her)”? Or maybe you join in mocking someone whose misdeeds have been made public. It’s easy to point the finger or post rude comments online, especially when it seems like everyone else is also doing it.

Or maybe the images on your screen lead you in a downward spiral of comparison, where your own family and your own situation seem full of flaws. You might begin thinking, “I wish I had a family like that” or “I wish I were as happy as he looks.”

If any of this sounds familiar, listen to Jesus’ parable. Speaking to those “who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else,” Jesus offers an antidote to the various pitfalls of comparing ourselves to other people (Luke 18:9).

While the Pharisee focused on congratulating himself, the tax collector focused on asking for mercy. This, according to Jesus, is the remedy to unhealthy comparison. God’s mercy is greater than your neighbor’s sin, so you should love him as Jesus does. God’s mercy is also greater than your weakness, so give yourself a break. Remember your dignity in Christ and the love with which Jesus always looks at you.

So when you are tempted to put other people down or put yourself down, turn your heart toward God instead. Speak to him with openness and simplicity about your struggles, and place your hope in his endless mercy. That mercy is greater than any sin ever committed. And it’s always available. As St. Faustina wrote, “One thing alone is necessary; that the sinner set ajar the door of his heart, be it ever so little, to let in a ray of God’s merciful grace.”

“Jesus, teach me to be as merciful as you are, both toward other people and toward myself.”

Hosea 6:1-6
Psalm 51:3-4, 18-21
Luke 18:9-14