My Weakness, God's Strength
humility gives rise to glory
Dear Friends,
This weekend's Gospel passage has Jesus telling the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.
It's a short parable, but it really packs a punch. Check out the linked video (it's probably my favorite short scene of all Biblical productions) to see what I mean:
Notice the Pharisee's pride (masquerading as strength) and the tax collector's humility (which looks like weakness).
Who ends up exalted?
The Pharisee, having no need of God, walks away with only his own achievements, only his own strength, only his own glory. This is sad. It's an all-too limited version of what life is meant to be.
The tax collector, having nothing but need of God, walks away with God's forgiveness and the power of God's merciful love at work in him and through him. He has become a part of God's glorious plan to set the world on fire with his love. This is what he was made for.
Glory awaits us if we but make the publican's prayer our own: "O God, be merciful to me a sinner." Kyrie Eleison! Lord, Have Mercy!
I look forward to seeing you soon.
In Christ's Love,
Father Daniel
δοῦλος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ
PS Get ready for our Ministry Fair this weekend. How is Jesus calling you to serve OLMC's life-changing mission?
Preparing for Mass?
Check out this weekend's readings:
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
The Pharisee and the Publican