From the Deacon's Desk

Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.

Jesus said to his disciples: “Stop judging, that you may not be judged.” (Matthew 7:1-5)

STOP JUDGING: Stop judging others. It is a simple message that offers us much to consider. Are we judgmental? Do we judge and condemn first, and ask questions later?

Are we visually judgmental? Do we immediately place someone in a category or have preconceived notions based on their nationality, color of skin, gender, weight, length of hair, number of tattoos or piercings, dress, etc.?

Do we judge others by how they speak? Do we assume things about them based on accent, tone, volume, pitch, pace, content, etc.?

Do we make assumptions about people based on how they identify themselves – political party, religious affiliation, career choice, views on sensitive topics, sexual or gender identity, etc.?

Do we tend to act as judge and jury? In other words, are there people in our lives who have hurt us, so we have “sentenced them” to a life without us? Do we hold grudges? Is it time to let go and forgive?

So many questions to ask ourselves. Try reading the questions above while looking in the mirror – using “I” instead of “we.” It will offer much upon which to reflect.

I don’t believe anyone wakes up in the morning thinking, “I’m going to judge people today.” Unfortunately, many of our judgmental habits come from years of conditioning.

Let’s make our prayer today one of humility: “Heavenly Father, help me to see everyone that comes before me today in only one way – as a child of God, worthy of dignity and respect. Amen.”