Recently while waiting to board an airplane, I stood near a group of “elite” fliers – people who have racked up so many frequent flyer miles that they walk red carpets, board early, and get first dibs on overhead luggage space. Near them was a woman who caught my attention because she wanted my attention. Loudly enough for everyone to hear, she struck up a conversation with nobody, or anybody, announcing, “Well, I’ve got a half million miles on one airline and a half million on another, but I don’t have a million on one, so I can’t walk down their silly red carpet!” Smiling wide, she caught my eye and nodded as if I would understand. I smiled back even though I, someone who only just entered the miles race, really did not understand. One of the other elite fliers said, “You don’t want another half million miles, because then you’d never get to see your family.” She laughed, then declared with pride, “I already don’t see my family.” All who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted. The parable in Luke 18:9-14 describes two people who have gone to the Temple — a Pharisee and a tax collector. Both these men are Jews, but neither are right with God. The tax collector works for the Romans, squeezing his needy neighbors on behalf of the empire and his own personal profit. The Pharisee distinguishes himself from this wretched tax collector, praying loudly, “God, I thank you that I am not like him,” exalting himself for everyone to hear. I’ve noticed a new form of exaltation today. Like the high-mileage flyer, I hear people exalt themselves by declaring how busy they are. I am so busy, they say. I have so many miles. I never see my children. They cry, “Woe is me; I am always on the go!” But their proud tone belies their lament. ... You can find the rest of the commentary on our website. | 
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