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Lenten Reflection - Saturday of the Third Week of Lent
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March 13, 2021Our Lucan gospel lesson about the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Publican) directly follows the story of the woman and the unjust judge. Both parables deal with those thinking they are more righteous—spiritually better, than others. In today’s reading, Jesus is speaking to religious leaders who think highly of themselves, but we also know that Jesus addresses both parables to us.
The righteous ones point out how others don’t have it “right!” This, in fact can also be the sin of the Church as well. Those not ‘in the right’ can face our scorn, our contempt, and even be rejected. Sometimes we do this outright by saying my (our) way or the highway. Other times it is about quickly showing the “other” is wrong theologically—after all we are so very certain. And while doing this we are so glad that we are not like them!
But do you know what is interesting? Jesus has our number…in and out of Lent, he has our number. He had our number in the story of the rich man and Lazarus. He had our number with the Lepers who did not return and give thanks. He has our number when he watches who gives food to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, clothing to the naked, shelter to the homeless, visits to the infirmed and the incarcerated. He watches because He is them!
When Jesus goes down this road we should all get a little nervous. The Publican sinner doesn’t haughtily go up front to pray, but stands at a distance with eyes lowered, makes a sign of repentance and cries out for God’s mercy. This is our work, too. Over and over and over again.
