We are all prone to judge. We all sin and we sit back and watch others around us trip up in their decisions that lead to sinful actions. Then we judge them, some of us more than others, but it happens. In doing so, we sin ourselves. Our problem is we don’t recognize our own sinfulness. It’s the old adage, “if you point your finger at someone, you point four more back at yourself.” Until we recognize our sinfulness we cannot fully accept God’s forgiveness and mercy.

In today’s reading from Matthew, Jesus is dining with the tax collectors. The Pharisees have an issue with this and say so. Jesus tells them that sacrifices are good but showing mercy is greater. They sit back and judge but do not consider themselves sinners. Recognition that all are sinners is the only appropriate attitude in the presence of God. Jesus seeks all men to come to him, but if a person considers themselves to be righteous, then they can close themselves to God’s grace. Sacrifices are good when they come as real sacrifices from the heart, but showing mercy to someone completely empty and helpless…now that is the real sacrifice.

How can I avoid judging others by their appearance and actions?

Lord, help me not to judge but to show mercy in all I encounter. Amen.