Stop Judging Others

By Amalraj A csc –

Readings: Tim 1:1-2, 12-14; Lk 6:39-42

Every individual has a desire to change the world. It is only at the end of their life that people realize that they can do nothing in the lives of others except bring changes in one’s own life. We spend a lot of time understanding the way people function but do very little to understand the pattern of our functioning. It is more important to know ourselves. The great philosopher
Socrates said to his disciple ‘Know thyself.’

It is the same invitation that Jesus gives to everyone. In today’s gospel, Jesus is a bit harsh in scolding the Pharisees, whom he addresses as blind teachers. As human beings, we all make mistakes but generally we overlook the mistakes done by us.

When someone else makes a small mistake, we raise our index finger to point it out almost immediately. This act shows how much we are unaware of ourselves. Often, we judge others without knowing their circumstances. We should get into the shoes of others to understand them and no longer judge them.

As humans, we cannot promise to be without committing any sin in our lives, but we can stop judging others. We shall ask for the grace that we may be able to see well before holding someone’s hand to lead.