Readings: 2 Kings 17:5-8,13-15,18, Ps. 60:3-5,12-13, Matthew 7:1-5
“Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3)
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus asks me, “Why do I notice the speck in my neighbour’s eye but do not notice the log in my own eye?” Until we can tell ourselves the ugly truth, until we see the log, we will not remove it. We only repent of our sinfulness when we admit the truth about our darkness. For instance, the day the drunkard calls himself a drunkard, that is the day he begins his journey to recovery.
I guess you may have heard the saying, “If you want to catch a thief, employ a thief.” Only a very good thief knows the mindset of a fellow thief. That which you are trying to fight in someone might be a reflection of your dark side. Jesus did not say we shouldn’t help others remove the speck in their eyes. He says, “First, remove your log so that you can see clearly to help someone remove their speck.”
It is easy to judge people when we are not in their shoes, do not understand them, or have never experienced their situation. It is very easy to condemn a footballer when you are not the one kicking the ball before a crowd of 45,000 people. It is easy to condemn a politician for stealing public funds when you have never been in a position with such access to public funds.
When next you feel a strong urge to correct someone, post a condemnatory video on social media, cry about an act of injustice, or even gossip about someone to a friend, please examine your conscience thoroughly. This examination helps me calm down when I am furious with others. By asking myself whether I haven’t done worse in the past (and whether I may do worse if given the chance), I realise there is wisdom in Jesus’ words on the Cross. “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”
Make efforts to be the light when you notice darkness in others. The best form of preaching is doing the right thing. By working on your log, you will discover why it has been so difficult for others to remove their specks. You will be less angry and more helpful. The crowd picked up stones to throw at the woman caught in the act of adultery, but one statement from Jesus sent them home. “Let him who has not sinned be the first to cast a stone at her.”
Today’s first reading delivers a soul-searching message: Obedience to God’s commandments serves as a shield, preventing your enemies from overpowering you. Too often, we see God’s commandments as burdens. We say, “Why can’t I just be free to do whatever I like with my body?” The answer to this question is: True freedom is enjoying the protection that comes from God when we live as his children.
The prodigal son thought there was freedom to enjoy outside his father’s house. He later came to his senses when he realised his condition had become worse than his father’s servants. Even the Israelites in today’s first reading thought there was freedom to enjoy by serving other gods (behaving like the nations which God had driven out before them). Soon, they found themselves in captivity under the reign of the Assyrian king.
As you go about your daily tasks at the beginning of a new week, let today’s First Reading ring loudly in your mind. There is nothing to gain from ignoring God’s instructions. Every sin you permit gives the devil leverage over you. It is like digging a hole in your fence, creating a hole in God’s protective veil over you. It doesn’t matter if people are not aware of your sinfulness. In fact, no one may notice the log in your eye, yet the devil will use that same log as a ladder to bring you under his captivity.
Be a person of integrity. Fear God and abide by His Word, whether in public or in secret. Let it be that even if your enemies are looking for a way to bring you down, they wouldn’t find any sin they can use against you.
Let us pray: Grant, O Lord, that we may always revere and love your holy name, for you never deprive of your guidance those you set firm on the foundation of your love. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Monday of week 12 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: 2 Kings 17:5-8,13-15,18, Ps. 60:3-5,12-13, Matthew 7:1-5)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu