The Road Less Traveled - a Lent Journey for TeensSample

The Two Ways

We are looking at two ways, one of humility and the other of pride. The parable of Jesus (Luke 18:9-14 ) gives us a choice in how to live our lives, but only one of the ways leads to real life.

In the parable, we see there is a way of pride. A way of life when you are only focused on yourself, looking down at others. This way of life leads you to depend only on yourself and what you do. You compare yourself to others, and you feel you are better than them.

Then there is the way of humility. It’s the opposite of the way of pride. On this way, you are focused on others and God. You are not only dependent on yourself but God, knowing you cannot make it on your own in this life. You rely on God to show you the way, not comparing yourself to others.

We are all on a life journey, and we face these ways daily. Jesus tells this story so we can become aware of what we choose every day. Which way do you feel you are on?

Exercise:

During your prayer time, reread today’s scripture. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you which way you are on. Tell God what you think and how you feel about this.

Repetition prayer:

The prayer of the tax collector. “God, have mercy on me. I am a sinner.”