Jesus often taught that our actions have a way of circling back to us—sometimes in surprising, even ironic, ways.
Those who make a show of their piety in public, hoping to be noticed? They will be noticed. That’s their reward. Nothing more.
As the sermon on the mount continues, Jesus warns us that the standard we use to judge others will become the standard by which we ourselves are judged. We often hear this as a warning about some future “Judgment Day,” but maybe Jesus also means it in real time. In the very act of judging, we are shaped and measured.
Judgment isn’t sterile or one-directional—it does something to us. When we fixate on the flaws of others, we often grow more critical of ourselves, too. Harsh judgment breeds a harsh interior life.
This is where grace comes in. Grace doesn’t just soften how we treat others; it also heals how we see ourselves. Over time, grace reshapes our habits of mind and heart, easing the sharp edges of judgment with the gentle contours of mercy.
Matthew 7:1-6
Don’t judge, so that you won’t be judged. You’ll receive the same judgment you give. Whatever you deal out will be dealt out to you. Why do you see the splinter that’s in your brother’s or sister’s eye, but don’t notice the log in your own eye? How can you say to your brother or sister, ‘Let me take the splinter out of your eye,’ when there’s a log in your eye? You deceive yourself! First take the log out of your eye, and then you’ll see clearly to take the splinter out of your brother’s or sister’s eye. Don’t give holy things to dogs, and don’t throw your pearls in front of pigs. They will stomp on the pearls, then turn around and attack you.
Psalm 130
I cry out to you from the depths, Lord—my Lord, listen to my voice! Let your ears pay close attention to my request for mercy! If you kept track of sins, Lord—my Lord, who would stand a chance? But forgiveness is with you—that’s why you are honored.
I hope, Lord. My whole being hopes, and I wait for God’s promise. My whole being waits for my Lord—more than the night watch waits for morning; yes, more than the night watch waits for morning!
Israel, wait for the Lord! Because faithful love is with the Lord; because great redemption is with our God! He is the one who will redeem Israel from all its sin.
Prayer
God,
Thank you for Sundays. I’m grateful for the opportunity of gathering with your Church. On the one hand, it is a responsibility, a duty, an accountable measure of dedication to you and one another. On the other hand, it is a comfort and a joy, a boost of life. I know that in many situations, the Church is not or has not been like that. I lament that, Lord. I pray for those who do not have or cannot find a fellowship of welcoming, love, and grace. Help us do better, Lord.
For today, speak to your people everywhere. Fill us with your life-giving spirit. Show us your truth, justice, and joy for ourselves and the world.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.
Mercy