Raise Your Eyes To Heaven And Ask God For Mercy

“Jesus addressed this parable to those who were convinced of their own righteousness.” (Luke 18:9)

Do we appreciate the irony here? Upon reading these words, many of us begin by assuming we do not fit into this category. Only later do we recognize that we are just like the Pharisee who thanked God that he was not like other men. How often our pride prevents us from seeing ourselves as we really are!

Lent is a time to pray for greater humility. None of us are exempt. We live in a culture that is self-absorbed and prideful. Let’s pause for a moment to ponder our own sinfulness with the humility of the tax collector! Let’s take the time to raise our eyes to heaven asking God for his mercy!

If we have fallen into the sin of pride, it’s not too late. Lent is a time to “return to the LORD” (Hosea 6:1). St. Teresa says that “One day of humble self-knowledge is a greater grace from the Lord, although it may have cost us many afflictions and trials, than many days of prayer.” The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a powerful way to receive this grace of “humble self-knowledge”. We should also pray the Stations of the Cross during this time as a way to grow in greater understanding of Christ’s sacrifice. This devotion humbles us as we realize our contribution to His incredible suffering and our need to repent in order to love Him more deeply.

Practicing humility enables us to open ourselves to others and free ourselves from loneliness and isolation. We will be less concerned with our own needs and more mindful of the needs of others finding joy and peace through charity and self-giving.

Read about Jennifer Baugh and Young Catholic Professionals here.