DO NOT JUDGE OTHERS

 Meditation for Wednesday of the 28^th Week in Ordinary Time
(Rm 2:1-11; Lk 11:42-46)

It is often the case that those who readily judge and condemn others are more like to do the same things they condemn. St Paul picks a case against those who judge others, emphasizing that the judgement of God will come upon those who do such things. According to him, we should not take God for granted by presuming upon the riches of His kindness, forbearance and patience for ourselves while at the same time condemning others. Whoever does this is storing up wrath of God upon himself. Since God is kind and patient, we have no excuse to judge others, “For in passing judgment upon him you condemn yourself.” On the other hand, those who show patience in good works shall receive glory, honor, peace and eternal life, “The Jew first and also the Greek.”

Focusing on the failings of others is a lot of distractions and unnecessary burden. It makes one a hypocrite. That is why Jesus condemned the Pharisees who focus on external religious shows but neglect justice and love. “Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seat in the synagogues and salutations in the market places.” The Pharisees and the Jews who received this good news of God’s salvation first ought to lead by example, and also to those who have received this message of grace; they are expected to manifest the kindness and patience of God to others. That is why we must not allow external practices distract us from the person of Jesus Christ, whom we are called to imitate and follow. Once we divert from the right spiritual road to take, we shall be wallowing the wrong path of impatience, judging others and over conscious of what others are saying about us.

St Edward, pray for us. Amen.

Fr Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R
Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church,
Tedi-Muwo, Lagos.
Wednesday October 13^th, 2021.
www.soundofsilence.ng
www.nwachinwe.blogspot.com