Ring of Kerry, Ireland

The inspiration for this came after a thought provoking chain of discussions with a friend… This introspection was good for me. Hope it speaks to you,too… May God be merciful to us,

Kendra

Luke 18:9-14 Paraphrased

9: To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable:
10: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a churchgoer, and the other a worker at the local poultry plant.
11: The churchgoer stood by himself and prayed “God, I thank you that I am not like other people- robbers, evildoers, adulterers- or even like this guy”
12: I work extra hard and manage carefully and give lots of money to the church so that we can pay our own medical bills and be exempt from different taxes,and that my children can go to our private schools and not have to deal with all the pressures from the world. Thank you that You gave me two parents that loved each other forever and always had my best interest in mind. They taught me right and wrong to the point that when I decided to follow you, my moral compass was so on track, I didn’t have to make many changes, and not many mistakes. Thank you that You gave me the fitting calling of being the quiet and peaceable in the land, so that our good testimony will shine out in the community and that others will see what great farmers and efficient housewives we are, and will wish to be like us. Thank you for the amount of money You’ve entrusted in my care. Help me invest it wisely for my children. Give me wisdom to know when to withhold information and when to tell all when it is a financial advantage.Help me not rip off my neighbor to the point that it reflects badly on our name in the community. Thank you for my church and that You’ve given the leaders wisdom to instruct us how to dress perfectly according to Your Word.”
13: But the plant worker stood at a distance “God, I know very little about you. I’ve been in this community for years, working here for these people. I’ve watched them and waited for them to tell me about You. But I’ve waited long enough. I’m not sure how to talk to You, but I need a Father. I can’t do this on my own. I’m so unworthy. Be merciful to me, a sinner…”
14: 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.”