Spoke this Prayer to himself

The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself

At first blush, the Pharisee’s prayer seems full of thanksgiving.   But the more he speaks, the clearer it becomes that his field of vision is so full of himself that he never catches a glimpse of God.   In the end, his self-absorbed attitude cuts him off from the very God he is addressing.

The tax collector gives us a helpful contrast to the Pharisee in the parable.   He doesn’t dare to raise his eyes to heaven.   Because he acknowledges his sin, he is able to connect with God’s mercy.   His humility opens the way for him to experience forgiveness and go home justified.

These two characters show us a key element to prayer.   Fruitful prayer involves moving away from ourselves and toward God.   It involves listening to his words of mercy rather than offering him our words of self-congratulation.

We know how much of a struggle it can be to keep God at the center of our prayer.   We might have pressing concerns that fight for our attention.   We might be tired and find our minds wandering.   Or we might find it hard to focus because we are excited about some good news—or bad news—we have just heard.   God knows it’s a struggle.   He knows the obstacles we face, and he is delighted with our efforts to turn our minds and hearts back to him.

Keep that in mind as you approach God in prayer today.   Whether it’s your own personal prayer or prayer at the vigil Mass this evening, know that God waits eagerly, like a parent ready to scoop up his child the moment the child lifts her arms toward him.

Don’t be surprised when your attention wanders.   If it helps you to gaze at a crucifix or pay extra close attention to a hymn, do it.   No matter what you do, know that every time you turn to God with humility, he will respond.   Every time you acknowledge your need, he will speak words of mercy to you and raise you up.   He loves spending time with you!

Word Among Us