Thou hypocrite, first cast out
the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast
out the mote out of thy brother's eye.
Matthew 7:5
No one likes to be called a hypocrite, or think of themselves as one. I
often wonder why Christians are often referred to as hypocrites,
especially in light of all the abundance of tolerance in the world
today. Just maybe they are returning fire on what they perceive for any
number of reasons, us pointing our finger at them. Makes me stop to
think how many times, not only with my words, but with my actions, I am
judging and pointing my finger. Jesus who was without sin and perfect,
repeatedly tells us throughout scripture, not to judge and all the
disadvantages of this act. Careful evaluation quickly brings my answer.
I have no business pointing fingers at anyone; it is not beneficial to
God, to me, to anyone. The only person I need to judge, is myself. Jesus
came offering salvation and freedom for all from sin. People may be put
off by someone harshly judging them, but will listen to the words of one
who comes with a message of grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness. If we
want to change the world, we can, by sharing the same grace that has
been extended to us, with them.
Prayer
Jesus, forgive me for so many times, seeing the actions of others and
making judgments. Give me the ability to love with Your love and to see
others through your eyes. I want to share your message of grace with
all. When they look at me, I don't want them to see a hypocrite but I
want them to see You. In Your name I ask.
