March 28, 2022
What does it say?
Jesus taught about prayer, blessed children, addressed the hindrance of wealth, and foretold His death and resurrection. On the way to Jericho, He healed a blind beggar.
What does it mean?
The parable about the Pharisee and tax collector clearly portrays justification by faith. Both men came to the temple, believed in God, and prayed; but only one left justified in God’s eyes. The Pharisee smugly celebrated his own superiority. Even his prayer was self-serving. In contrast, the tax collector recognized his sinfulness, knew that he needed atonement for his sins, and begged God for mercy. Because he repented, the tax collector left the temple – forever thereafter righteous before God. Self-exaltation leads to eternal judgment, but humility leads to eternal glory.
How should I respond?
Countless people believe they can earn their way into Heaven. They think that doing the right things will make them good enough to stand before God, but only He can impart righteousness to people who have repented of their sin and placed their faith in the atoning sacrifice Jesus made on the Cross (2 Corinthians 5:21). Do you have family members or friends who are counting on their good outweighing their bad? Will you look for open doors to have conversations that will help bring them to faith in Christ?