Nancy Salley: As you listen to this passage, reflect on how God calls us to live with righteousness and humility, turning our hearts toward him. Do not judge others and you will not be judged for you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. Matthew seven one through two. Consider what it means to reflect God's heart of mercy and humility in your interactions with others.
In Matthew seven, Jesus teaches us about judgment and how we are to treat others. He warns us not to judge others harshly because the way we treat others is the way we will be treated. It's easy to be quick to judge, to criticize, or to point out the flaws in others, but Jesus calls us to a higher standard, One of mercy, humility, and understanding. Think about the times when you've been quick to judge others. What are the attitudes or situations that trigger judgment Reflect on how you'd want to be treated in those same moments.
Imagine yourself standing in a peaceful garden surrounded by tall gentle trees and flowers blooming all around you. The sun is shining, casting soft light on everything and the air is calm. You're holding a mirror in your hands looking at your reflection. In this moment, rather than seeing beauty, you only see your imperfections and feel the weight of all your flaws. As you stand there, Jesus approaches you gently and asks if he can look into the mirror with you.
He stands beside you and looks at your reflection, not with judgment, but with deep compassion. His eyes are full of love and as you look at him, you feel your heart soften. You realize that he sees beyond your imperfections and loves you deeply. He invites you to look at others with the same mercy and grace that he shows you. Now, imagine Jesus taking your mirror from you and replacing it with a new one.
One that reflects not only your image, but his own. In this new reflection, you see a heart full of compassion, humility, and mercy. You are called to look at others through the same lens of grace, recognizing that everyone carries their own burdens and struggles. Take a deep breath. As you let go of judgment and embrace the humility and love that Jesus has shown you, allow his mercy to fill your heart and prepare you to extend the same mercy to everyone you encounter.
Ask God to open your heart to a posture of humility, to see others as he sees them, not through criticism, but compassion. Release over to him any judgment or harsh feelings you may be holding on to and leave them in the hands of Jesus. God delights in showing mercy over judgment. It's when we reflect his mercy that we live out the love he has shown us. As you go through your day, choose to respond to others with grace and understanding even when they fall short.
May you live with a heart of mercy and humility, reflecting God's love in every action and interaction. And by the grace he has shown you, may that shape how you treat others and find peace in knowing that his mercy is always greater than judgment. Hi.