Scripture:
And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise
his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, "God, be
merciful to me a sinner!" Luke 18:13
Reflection:
Humility in prayer catches God's ear quicker than great volume in
prayer. No, there is nothing wrong with praying loudly, but God is
not deaf. He hears the heart's silent cry whether it is vocalized or
not. Recognizing that prayers are answered because of his mercy and
not because of our goodness is a mark of humility that attracts God's
attention. We don't need a certain formula or a special wording for
our prayers. But we do need the humble recognition that we are
dependent on his mercy when we pray.
Prayer:
Merciful Father, we ask that you would grant us a spirit of humility.
When we approach your throne, may we never draw near with a sense of
entitlement nor with prayers that sound more like demands rather than
requests. May we always be mindful that it is only because of your
mercy and never because of our merits that you hear us when we pray.
As your servants we ask this. Amen.
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