Devotion: Judging Others
Judging Others
Please take a moment to read Matthew 7:1-5
Every Tuesday night, you can find me watching ‘America’s Got Talent’. I know it is cheesy, but I enjoy seeing raw talent and hearing what the judges have to say about each audition. I love learning the back story of the performers. It gives me a better perspective on where they are coming from. Most of the time I agree with the judges, but sometimes they get it so wrong that the audience has a fit. The judges range from a comedian to a fashion model—not exactly qualified to assess the wide range of talents. But the participants have volunteered to go up on stage in front of thousands to share their gifts and take the criticism thrown at them.
This scripture puts us in the judge’s seat. Who are we to judge others? What qualifications do we have to tell someone else how to dress, talk or live? First, Jesus tells us to take a good hard look at ourselves. What do we need to improve in ourselves before we start telling others what is wrong with them?
One of the songs sung at worship on Sunday was called ‘Forgiven’. The Praise Team did an amazing job expressing God’s power of forgiveness. One of the lines struck me hard. It said we should, “Lay down our stones.” When we look at others with judgment in our eyes, we are missing God’s message for us. Casting stones comes from John 8:7: ”Jesus said, ‘If you are without sin, you can cast the first stone.’” Since no one meets that criteria, no stones should be thrown. So we should not criticize others when we are not without sin.
Pastor Greg’s personal story in his sermon should have resonated with all of us. His father’s nightly reminder was, “Who’s responsible for Gregory?” Each of our names could have been inserted in that question. Each one of us is responsible for our actions. We are not perfect, but God loves us anyway. That is grace. And we can give that grace to others with acceptance and love, not judgment.
Dear God, Thank you for loving me just as I am. Let me show love to others and not judge them. Give me the strength to help others and be your hands. Amen.
Written by Cindy Swanson
Cindy and her husband, Ray, have been members of Sheridan Lutheran Church since 1978. They have three sons, Ben, Andrew and Patrick who were confirmed at Sheridan. They enjoy spending time with their grandchildren who range in age from 4-10. Cindy retired from teaching writing to middle schoolers for Lincoln Public Schools in 2014. She savors a good cup of coffee, a well-written book, a lively discussion and chocolate. She lives near a cemetery and knows each day is a gift!