Luke 18:1-30

Anti-Vitriol

Vitriol is not a word that many people use but far too many use the concept even if they don’t know the word. The word literally means “sulfuric acid” but the figurative meaning is “cruel and bitter criticism.” We live in a culture where civil discourse has given way on almost every front to vitriol. Many who practice it believe it is their duty to the faith. It is not. It is both unpleasant and dangerous.

It leads to the kind of attitude the Pharisee had in this passage. Jesus told the parable to “those who were confident of their own righteousness.” Unfortunately, those kind of people are still in plentiful supply. The man was very thankful...thankful that he wasn’t like the unfortunates who were not blessed to be him. “God have mercy on me, a sinner,” always gets God’s ear. “God, look at that sinner over there and sic him,” will send you home unjustified.

What do we not understand about, “Anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it”? Jesus called that the “truth.” Children are generally humble. There is something wrong in a little child if it considers itself always right and others wrong. There is something wrong in a little child who always suspects the motives of others while attributing the best of motives to his or her self. And according to Jesus there is something wrong in an adult with those same attributes; something that prevents them from entering the kingdom of heaven.

The next time we are tempted to demonize someone else with a strong does of vitriol we should remember one word of advice - don’t.