Another Pharisee?

Nobody wants to be caught being the Pharisee.

Nobody wants to be the one at the front of the group guilty of spouting their own accomplishments.  To be more clear:  we don't mind tooting our own horn (occassionally) but it is embarrassing to be so obvious that Jesus has to use you as an example in a parable.  Know what I mean?

First off, you look like a cad whose mother never taught them how to behave in public.  If you are going to brag, you need to learn how to do it quietly and with poise.  A little self-deprecating humor helps.

Second, folks are going to react poorly.  When confronted with 'the star pupil' we begin to look for flaws we can highlight.  You know, he might fast twice a week but he eats chocolate with every meal!  (not so horrible in my eyes, but you get the idea).  He might get an A in physics but he failed his driver's test 3 times.  She might be the lead cheerleader but her sister's .......   On and on it goes as we come up with nasty comparisons in order to 'take her down a peg or two."

Third, once you claim it outloud, you will need to live up to that reputation.....always!  Folks have long memories when you have successfully made them look bad and they are simply waiting for an opportunity to turn the tables.

Therefore, my advice is, brag in private.

No, not really.  That's terrible spiritual advice.  If we expend all our energy (physical, emotional, mental and spiritual) comparing ourselves to others, then what is left to focus on God and the work Jesus has called us to in this world?:

If all our attention is given to how we measure up......and here it goes both ways: whether you think you are better than everyone else or you think you are worse than most...........what attention do we have for God?  What thanks do we have for the gift of life?  What attitude do we hold for our neighbor?  How are we a part of bringing the kingdom of God into this world today?

In Luke 18 Jesus tells this parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector who go to the temple to pray.  Except, of course, the Pharisee isn't praying to God, he is running for office.  He neither hears nor sees God because he is so full of himself.

Nobody wants to be caught being the Pharisee.