Often we are quick to judge and slow to love, whereas God is the opposite. ‘The Lord is slow to anger and abounding in everlasting love’. All have sinned. Everyone has a sinful past and inner wounds. Many of us are unaware of what is happening deep within us. We are prone to sin and we try to excuse ourselves saying ‘God understands us’. Yes, God is merciful to everyone. But we cannot misuse it. God understands and loves everyone because he knows our nature. When we are self-centered, we end up judging others repeatedly. The Gospel reading reveals a bitter truth. We judge others’ words and actions but we are blind to our weaknesses. Jesus is opening our eyes to this truth. We follow laws and regulations but without empathy. Jesus invites us to be more compassionate, understanding, and forgiving. We need to remember that we too have blind spots like everyone else, and understand that we fall short of the glory of God.

PRAYER: Abba Father, fill me with your love and presence and let it over flow from me to others. Amen.