Life of a Disciple: Upside Down World & Humility

Another parable that starts with prayer and points Jesus’ disciples (us) in a different direction.  This week’s Gospel features two characters that we’ve met before…a Pharisee and a tax collector.  The first is tasked with upholding the law of Judaism and the other is employed by the Empire to take a portion of one’s property.  Neither character has a good reputation in town.  But wait…

This time, they approach the Temple to pray. And that’s where the twist begins.  One prays about what he has done in front of all inside the walls – the things that he is called to do a righteous man of the Law.  The other prays for something to be done to him – to help him through the rough parts of his life as one of the most feared and hated men around.  And he prays outside the Temple walls.

The point – it’s not about what you do.  It’s about what you give up so that you realize what God is doing with you.  And that’s when things in that world and ours get turned upside down because its the opposite of what ‘the world’ expects of us.

So come – however you find yourself and wherever you are on your journey.  You are invited and welcomed and beloved.

In Christ,
Pastor Tina +