Eccles 35.12-14, 16-19;
Ps 32;
II Tim 4.6-8, 16-18;
Lk 18.9-14
HUMBLE PRAYERS REACH THE CLOUDS
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector illustrates the importance of humility. Our Lord uses the imagery to grab our attention—highlighting the pretentious Pharisee and the humble tax collector—then teaches that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Humility is vital for a relationship with God. The Book of Ecclesiasticus says humble prayers reach the clouds. Prayer involves willingness to accept God’s answers, not demands. Jesus’ life exemplifies this humility, especially in Gethsemane, where He submitted to God’s will, despite His divine nature.
In the 11th century, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux sought God through humility, seeing it as a ladder to divine truth. Monasteries teach humility as essential, as seen in saints like Therese of Lisieux and Bernadette. Bernard believed humility is crucial at all life stages to discover truth.
He identified three ways to find God’s truth: divine revelation, understanding others through compassion, and self-examination rooted in humility. Pride distances us from God; true understanding begins with humility in our own souls.
Public scandals reveal that disgrace often leads individuals to God, stripping away pretenses and awakening humility. Saint Paul glorified his public humiliation, welcoming grace through vulnerability.
Most of us won’t face scandal, but we can cultivate humility through spiritual steps like Confession. Being honest before God reveals our true selves and helps us grow in humility—a foundation for true power and happiness, as all scripture shows.
Humility invites God’s favor; it’s not about cringing but trusting the Lord who cares for us.
Fr Joseph Osho