Children's Liturgy Series: 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Cycle C)

In today's Gospel Jesus tells us a story about the proud Pharisee and the humble tax collector.  He reminds us not to worry about comparing ourselves to others, because its more important to know that God love us.

Father in Heaven, we praise and glorify you. We thank you for bringing us together for this children's liturgy lesson.  Please send us the Holy Spirit and fill our hearts with peace, love and wisdom.  Help us to understand the message you have for us to day and be able to apply it in our daily lives. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Jesus addressed this parableto those who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else."Two people went up to the temple area to pray;one was a Pharisee and the other was a tax collector. The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself, 'O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity --greedy, dishonest, adulterous -- or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.' But the tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed,'O God, be merciful to me a sinner.' 

I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

Praying with Humility
Instead of saying, “I’m the best at everything,” a child might say,
“Dear God, thank you for helping me. Please help me be kind and do what’s right.”
This shows they are talking to God with honesty, not pride.

At School
When they do well on a test, they can say,
“I’m glad I did well. Thank you, God, for helping me learn,”
instead of saying, “I’m smarter than everyone else.”
If they make a mistake or hurt someone’s feelings, they can apologize and ask for forgiveness, showing humility.

With Friends
When playing games, they can take turns and not brag about winning.
For example: “Good game! You did great too!”
instead of “I always win because I’m the best.”

At Home
If they do a chore, they can do it to help, not for praise.
“I helped clean up because I love my family,”
instead of “Look at me! I did everything!”

When Saying Sorry
Like the tax collector, children can say,
“I’m sorry, God. I’ll try to do better next time.”
This helps them learn that God forgives those who are truly sorry