“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. “And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.”

Matthew 7:1-5

I admit, my thoughts are influenced by the writing of Gregory Boyd, “Repenting of Religion.” Challenged by the original intent of God in creation – that I would be completely fulfilled by living in a love relationship with my Creator, and that the original intent was spoiled when humanity chose to know good and evil. I admit, I joined all other humans in striving to fill my needs by becoming a judge of good and evil rather than leaving that to God.

Jesus taught other ways. He reminded his listeners that to judge others is to put themselves on the judgment block. It is the standard one uses that will be used to judge her. “Concern” for the small speck in the other’s eye does not compare with the log in my own eye.

Imagine trying to look into someone’s eye to help remove a piece of dust – something that is causing distress. That is quite a task. But when hindered by an even greater obstruction in your own eye, the task is impossible.

I am convicted and challenged by Jesus’ words. And I am guilty. Guilty of looking at others, judging if they are good or evil; all the while, failing to follow Jesus’ command to love others unconditionally.

My prayer must be: Father, forgive me, I am a sinner! Renew me in your perfect love.