One time I was in a department store attempting to purchase a new suit. When I tried on a suit, I stood in front of a 3-way mirror. The mirror enabled me to see myself from three different perspectives. As I looked at my image in the mirror, I said to myself, "Is that really me?" It was very uncomfortable since I normally see myself in a singular mirror. As I continued to check out the suit, I realized that in reality people actually see me in reverse. For example, my hair is parted the other way. What I perceive as my good side is really my bad side.
When the Pharisee prayed to God, he saw his good side. He was filled with righteousness, proud of his perfect record, especially his fasting and tithing record. On the other hand, the tax collector saw his bad side. He realized his unworthiness and said, "God me merciful to me a sinner."
How do see yourself? Are you like the Pharisee who only saw how good he was, or are you like the tax collector who only saw himself in need of God's forgiveness?