Hey Kevin,

Yes, that is the Scripture text I was referring to as well. The tax collector was exalted by Jesus because he humbled himself.  This is what you originally submitted:
"Jesus castigated the Pharisees for their Pride and arrogance but he praised the tax collector in the temple a collaborator who was sincere (humble) before God at that moment in time and he went home justified, he remained in his sinful situation (Continued in been a traitor)" 
You cleared up my question. I thought you were saying that the humble tax collector left Jesus' presence and went home and remained in his sinful situation. As I mentioned above, while the Pharisees boasted of their moral perfection, the tax collector said to Jesus; "God, be merciful to me a sinner." It is our recognition of being a sinner, needing God's mercy, forgiveness and grace and being repentant/changing our sinful behaviors -not remaining in sin that we receive God's mercy. If I met Joe, would say the same thing I said to Evelyn