Humility in Prayer

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time 

26 October 2025

 

First Reading: Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 34:2-3, 17-18, 19, 23

Second Reading: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18

Gospel: Luke 18:9-14

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

Prayer is essential in our lives. As the Church teaches, God desires a conversation with us through prayer. However, we must be mindful of both the content of our prayers and the attitude we have when we pray.

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches us humility in prayer. The Pharisee approached God enumerating his righteous deeds and his strict adherence to the law. In his prayer, he compared himself to others, elevating himself above the tax collector and feeling more deserving of God’s favor. In contrast, the tax collector’s prayer was simple, only a humble plea for God's mercy. Jesus tells us that it was the tax collector who went home justified, not the Pharisee.

This Gospel reminds us to be humble. When we come before the Creator of heaven and earth, we don’t need to boast about our good works, as God already knows them. What He desires from us is a contrite heart, someone who seeks forgiveness and help that only He can provide. Jesus cautions us against self-righteousness, as God knows the true disposition of our hearts.

What do we pray for? Who are we when we pray? These are important questions to reflect on as we kneel before God in prayer.

Prayer

Lord, teach us to be humble in prayer. As we desire to converse with You, may You open our lips, touch our hearts, and lead us to show compassion and love to others. Amen.