Sirach 35:12–14, 16–18; 2 Timothy 4:6–8, 16–18; Luke 18:9–14

Today’s readings shine a light on the kind of prayer that truly reaches God’s heart, the prayer of humility.

In the first reading from Sirach, we are told that “the prayer of the humble pierces the clouds.” God listens to those who come before Him sincerely, who calls upon Him with trust rather than pride. Sirach reminds us that God is close to those who depend on Him completely. Their prayers rise to heaven not because of eloquent words, but because they spring from a heart aware of its need for mercy.

The Gospel brings this truth vividly to life in Jesus’ parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. Both men go to the temple to pray, but their hearts are miles apart. The Pharisee’s prayer is full of “I”: I fast, I tithe, I am not like others. He compares, he measures, and he boasts. The tax collector, meanwhile, stands afar off, unable even to lift his eyes. He simply prays, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” And Jesus tells us that Pharisee went home self-satisfied but the humble man “went home justified.”

The message is simple yet powerful: God hears the prayer that comes from a contrite and honest heart. Pride closes heaven’s doors; humility opens them wide. True prayer is not about showing God our goodness but about allowing God to show us mercy.

As we come before the Lord this Sunday, let us approach Him like that humble tax collector, with sincerity, gratitude, and openness. For when we pray from the heart, we too will “go home justified,” renewed by the gentle love of a God who “hears the cry of the poor” and lifts up the lowly.

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14)

Your Priest,

Father Charles Enyinnia