The readings today bid us to reflect upon our own prayer. There is something comical in the way Jesus portrays the Pharisee that turns him into almost a caricature. It is easy to dismiss him as a clown. And yet, as we laugh together over his arrogance, pride, and contemptuous attitude, the Lord has succeeded in forcing us to look again at ourselves. In this comic figure, we will, of course, be able to deny that we are anywhere near as ridiculous as he. And yet . . . as we trace his absurdity to its roots, we find an expression of self-centeredness, complacency, and pride in which we all share. Who has not tried to raise himself up in his own estimation by comparing himself to others?

Who has not taken credit for himself when he does something good, even though his action may be something one would simply expect of a Christian? Who hasn't indulged in reciting a litany of our own virtues and achievements at the end of a day to assure ourselves of our own goodness? While the Pharisee may be an extreme example, we too must admit we share a certain likeness to him.

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us avoid comparing our prayer and judging others. Let us pray that we may grow ever more aware of our own need for God's help as we strive to grow more and more in the likeness of Christ.