Prostrate Prayer

     Jesus hung around with the outcasts of Jewish society; the tax collector, an adulterous woman, the demon-possessed, the ordinary, the humble, looking for those willing to turn to Him and change their ways. The Pharisees were the keepers of the law, the academics, the readers of Scripture, the outwardly religious. Jesus sees the heart. Listen to His perspective on the prayers and attitudes He honors.

Two men went to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee, and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed, God, I thank you that I am not like other people-robbers, evildoers, adulterers or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get. But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, God have mercy on me, a sinner. I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted.  Luke 18-10-14

     God’s perspective is not on our outward trappings, the way we look and the things we do. He does not care about the grammar, the fine theological discourse or keeping check marks on each other. He appreciates and looks for the humble heart, the one with his/her face on the floor before Him, asking for forgiveness, asking for help, recognizing the need for a Savior. And the humble will be exalted.

     No need for comparisons. No need for posturing, No nned to compete for attention. God loves the gracious heart, the one with the cheerful giving attitude, with no expectations of receiving accolades, or in keeping things even, but an acceptance of needing One above ourselves and showing others who He is. After all, it’s not about us. It’s all about Him.

Dear Jesus,

Give us humble hearts to serve You. We kneel before you today, understanding Your holy and all-seeing presence and understanding we are nothing without you.

Amen