Gospel Of Luke 18: 9-14

I was assigned to read the passages in the Gospel of Luke. Each passage had its own story and a unique message along with it—one was about the prodigal son, another talked about Jesus in the synagogue, one told the story of the Good Samaritan, etc. However, all together they convey a vision, Jesus’ vision of a just world. Taking it from a more general standpoint, one can easily see that Jesus sees a world that is merciful, forgiving, and inclusive. In his eyes, there are no outsiders. In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee thanks the Lord for making him “not like other men: extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even this tax collector” (Luke 18:11). But, the tax collector humbles

One of the readings was the famous parable of the prodigal son. A wasteful son spends all of his father’s money on worldly desires. When he runs out and realizes he has done wrong, he returns to his father who welcomes him with an extravagant feast. I genuinely love this passage because the father, instead of punishing his son, rejoices in his return because “he was lost and is found” (Luke 15:31). Jesus’ vision of a just world is one where people look away from the wrongdoings of others and, instead, be glad of their change in hearts. He wants us to forgive. This passage ties very well with another about loving our enemies instead of loathing them. How is it possible to love our enemies? Aren’t we supposed to hate each other? No, we must not hate. We must love and only love. We are called to respond with peace and kindness to those who persecute us. “To him who strikes [us] on one cheek, [we must] offer also the other” (Luke 6:29). Yes, this is not an easy task (I know from fights with my little sister and doing group projects with those I do not like), but I have learned that replacing anger and hate with love stops the fighting and the violence. In fact, it leads to peace and