Jesus tells a parable that hits at the heart of the human experience. Comparison feels like an innate part of being human. We are constantly trying to figure out how we measure up and how we might justify our own actions (or our own existence). But Jesus shows us that comparison is a trap, and that true freedom and confidence can only be found in trusting him with the confident trust of a child.

1. What are ways you find yourself comparing yourself to others?
2. How have you found the self-righteousness of comparison to leave you empty and insecure?
3. What keeps you from the simple, regular admission that you are a sinner desperately in need of God's mercy?
4. What characteristics of child-ish-ness to you still need to grow out of?
5. What characteristics of child-like-ness do you need to hold onto or recapture?