Judging Others
GENESIS 12:1-9; PSALM 32; MATTHEW 7:1-5
“Do not judge, so that you may not be judged”. Often times we are quick to notice what others have done wrong but slow to recognize the same failures or worse ones in ourselves. Today’s gospel rejects hypocrisy; it rejects harsh and hasty judgment and desires us to have compassion towards the weaknesses of others. It also warns against having a religious, sanctimonious attitude that strives to knock down others rather than to build them up. We are expected to rigorously assess and examine our own behavior.
“Judge not” does not suggest relaxation of laws or disciplines. It is not an absolute statement against judgement but a call to pass honest judgement. We are to give one another advice and correction. To effectively counsel someone, we must approach the situation with the appropriate attitude of humility and kindness. This is a serious responsibility that could very likely prevent the death of a soul. We must treat people as the Lord Jesus has treated us. The Bible says ” Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear–hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. (Jude 1:22-23). So, Jesus cautions against unfairly judging others.
LET US PRAY.
Lord God, who entrusted the earth to men to till it and care for it, and made the sun to serve their needs: give us grace this day to work faithfully for your glory and for our neighbours’ good. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
