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Morning Devotion for Ash Wednesday
March 5, 2025
Reading: Luke 18:9-14
He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: ‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax-collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, “God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax-collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.” But the tax-collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.’
Meditation: Jo Ann B. Jones
It is Ash Wednesday and I wish all who read this Meditation a blessed Lenten season.
Yes, it seems that there is a lot going on in this passage, but since we are just starting out on our 2025 Lenten journey, let’s just look at a few things to guide us on our way.
There is much to consider in this brief, but sharp and intense parable. There are distinct differences between the Pharisee and the tax collector in terms of how each stands, what each one prays for, and how each one prays. The greatest difference between the two praying men lies here: one has written off the other, while the other can speak only of his own brokenness.
Do not fall for the trap that is set here. Take note: whenever we want to be critical of one another or distinguish ourselves and our values clearly from someone else, the parable exposes the disdain we harbor. How did we come to know better than God who should receive mercy and how they should receive it? For take note, the lesson here is the humble contrition God desires versus the arrogance that poisons a life of faith and service. The powerful message given here is - Listen to Jesus’ story and ask: How shall we pray to a wildly merciful God? How shall we live, having learned of such gracious and generous mercy? After all, this is the important point. God alone can judge our human hearts. We are able to do little, but claim our dependence on God’s mercy. When this happens and we forget, if only for a moment, our human-constructed divisions and stand before God aware only of our need, then we, too, are justified by the God of Jesus and invited to return to our homes in mercy, grace, and gratitude. Now consider all this and allow it to guide you in this year’s Lenten journey.
Collect for Ash Wednesday
Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Created and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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