Lent 3, Saturday – Hos 5:14-6:6; Luke 18:9-14

Harden not your hearts today, but listen to the voice of the Lord.

It’s obvious that in life people have different motives. We see this at almost every turn. People often prefer to go to extremes and represent completely different approaches to the same reality.

For example, we can see this in the Temple of Jerusalem where the pride of the Pharisee and humility of the tax collector met. A man who was fixated on his own perfection as well as a man full of remorse spoke to God. One wanted to praise himself, the other – to humble himself before the majesty of God.

The Gospel shows Jesus, not criticising the Pharisee, but his attitude, which is far from the love of neighbour. Because true piety is far from viewing yourself as righteous and despising others. The basis of good and fruitful is humility and a contrite heart, as well as the recognition of one’s own weakness and openness to the grace of God.

I’m sorry, God. I’m sorry that I have time for You mainly when I need something from You. And when I only give time for my issues. I’m sorry for forgetting about You when everything is all right. And yet, coming to You having no specific issues, not even wanting to satisfy spiritual needs, this is then pure selfless love . . .