The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: 'Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: "God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get." But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner." I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.'
Reference: Luke 18:9-14
The Humble Prayer
In a bustling city, two men went to the church to pray. The first, a respected businessman, stood confidently and prayed, 'Thank you, God, that I am successful and not like others who struggle.' Meanwhile, a man struggling with addiction quietly knelt at the back, whispering, 'God, please have mercy on me.' The businessman left feeling proud, but the humble man left with peace in his heart. Jesus teaches us that humility and a contrite heart please God more than outward appearances of righteousness. God sees our hearts, and those who come to Him with humility will receive His grace.