ONLY BY GRACE REFLECTIONS - Comments From the Chair - 13 March 2021

#TheParableOfThePhariseeAndTheTaxCollector #Prayer #Humility TOPIC: IS YOUR PRAYER PLEASING TO GOD OR NOT? First Reading: Hosea 6:1-6 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 51:3-4, 18-19, 20-21AB Verse Before the Gospel: Psalms 95:8 Gospel: Luke 18:9-14 Today’s readings revolve around our attitude when we pray to God. Hosea, in the first reading, speaking in God’s name said, “I want your constant love, not your animal sacrifices. I would rather have my people know me than burn offerings to me.” (v6). Our prayers and sacrifices to God will be meaningless to Him if our love for Him and for our neighbor is wanting. In the gospel reading, Jesus contrasts two people in the way they prayed. One blows his own trumpet of righteousness in prayer while being contemptuous of those who do not conform to religious standards, practices and morals. The other acknowledges his sinfulness and his constant dependence on God. He does not judge anyone but himself alone. This is the 340th installment of our CFC quarantine contemplation series focusing on the daily liturgical readings. [NOTE: All the regular reflections are between 3-7 minutes long, enough time for us to ponder what God's message is for us individually and to pray that we may live them out in our lives. This video is also available on   / cfchrist   and Bong Arjonillo’s Facebook page]