Two men went up to the temple to pray, one was a Pharisee, and the other was a customs officer.
Luke 18:10
Those among the Jews who had taken up the mantle of the customs official for the Romans were hated in more ways than one. Viewed as traitors, they were considered the apex of sinfulness by the religious elite. They often enriched themselves by exacting more than their due.
The Pharisee on the other hand was a special breed of the religious oligarchy that actually had a fairly biblical view for the most part. Where they lacked was in their application of the law. Hypocrites to an extraordinary degree, they would enrich themselves to the detriment of the poor, homeless, and widowed.
Going up to the temple was possibly a special event for the tax man. He may not have visited on a regular basis. In any event, a visit to the temple was a privilege.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the great blessings that You give us every single day! Your mercy, and Your grace, are absolutely overwhelming. May we live to praise You! Guide us with Your great wisdom, and in Your profound love. In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.