THE WAY OF JESUS
As I was reading today’s Gospel, I was struck by the Pharisee’s prayer. He is thanking God for not being the tax collector that is next to him. Wow - how arrogant! I am not sure I have ever really meditated on this story so deeply, and yet, this sentiment doesn’t seem foreign. This sentiment is prevalent today. In the rhetoric of public arenas, many loud voices are expressing their superiority over others and using faith, or God, or prayer, to justify themselves. Jesus is very clear in his way - the way of humility, of decentering oneself, of service to others. I am curious what Jesus would think of these high and mighty Christians of today who feel superior to (and reject) the migrant, the unhoused, the trans, the divorced, the afflicted with addiction. I feel that it would break his heart.
Jesus challenges me, today, to remember that it is not all about me. He is reminding me that an authentic encounter with him leads me to actively encounter others, not judge them. I feel invited to make this Lent about decentering myself - my ego, my judgyness, my self-help obsessions - and re-committing myself to his way. The true way is about we, us, together in kinship.
Jesus, teach me how to follow you. Forgive me when I have been too preoccupied with perfection, rules, or judgement. Teach me how to go towards others with my hands and with my heart. Teach me to love like you. Amen.
Ana Lopez