A sermon on Luke 18:9-14

By Fr. Mike Paraniuk
HCP columnist

Next year, I will be three quarters of a century old. I'm getting closer to that day when I will stand before God in judgment. I want this meeting to be a good experience. 

I'll be so happy if God hands me a pair of wings. If He puts a coal shovel in my hands, I'll throw myself down on the Heavenly floor, begging for mercy. God's Mercy is the key to having a "right relationship" with Him. The Bible calls this "justification." It means you and God are friends. It is so important you know how this friendship comes about. It is not based on what you have done for God, but on what God has done for you.

Many believe that if they live a good life, then God has to accept them into Heaven. No one is good enough on their own to get to Heaven that way. We all fall short of what God expects of us. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23.)

So what must I do to possess eternal life in Heaven? 

Simply to "believe and receive" what Jesus has done for you. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9.) You are made right with God when you believe that Jesus took your place on the Cross and died for your sins. His death paid the penalty. Jesus offers you the gift of friendship with God. 

God wants you to personally accept this gift by faith. When you receive it, you will become a new person. God will empower you to do the good works He wants you to do.  

"That the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:17.) The good works you do is not to earn Heaven, but in response to the Mercy Jesus has shown you. Jesus loves you so much He died for you. Good works is your grateful response from one who did not deserve this great gift.  

The Pharisee was not justified because he believed his own righteous deeds made him acceptable to God. He was telling God, "Look at all the good I have done. Ain't I wonderful?" The tax collector threw himself at God's Mercy. He had nothing to offer God but faith in God's promise to forgive. The tax collector's humble dependence made him a friend of God that day.

I have been watching the "Chosen" about the life of Jesus. I was deeply moved by a scene where Jesus had an intimate meeting with Judas. They met at a beautiful indoor garden filled with flowers where Jesus was staying, right before His Crucifixion. Jesus offered Judas one more chance to accept Him. Jesus invites Judas to sit with him. 

Judas speaks first, "We have arrived at a critical moment." He tells Jesus He is on the verge of closing an important deal. Jesus responds, "What is the deal you are proposing I close?" Judas says, "Reclaim your birth right. You are the Messiah, Son of David. The people are so convinced they are singing songs in your name." 

Jesus challenges Judas by asking if I don't do what you are proposing I should, will you still believe? Judas says, "Of course I will." Then Jesus lays it on the line, "Then why are you suggesting that you know better than I do on what should be the next best course of action?" Judas yells at Jesus for not taking his advice about making Himself King. 

Jesus tells Judas, "You have a choice to make, Judas. Who do you belong to? Who has your heart?" 

Jesus pleads with Judas, "I want it." Jesus reaches over and grabs the trembling hand of Judas. Jesus concludes, "I will pray for you." Judas left crestfallen. Jesus cries. 

Jesus asks you, "Who has your heart?" How you answer this question will decide if you get to Heaven. Jesus wants it. Give Him your heart and know His peace...forever. 

Blessings...Fr. Mike.