Deuteronomy 15-16

“He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt” (v9).  Jesus told an ironic parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector (sinner) who both went to the Temple to pray. The Pharisee “thanked God” for his own righteousness, while the tax collector begged for mercy. Jesus warned them: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (v14).

According to Jesus, His Kingdom has no room for self-congratulation or treating others with contempt.  But when we reach out to Him “like a child” (v17), open-hearted and trusting His mercy, He welcomes us home.