‘I DESIRE MERCY, NOT SACRIFICE’

 ‘I DESIRE MERCY, NOT SACRIFICE’

It is good for us to remember these words of Jesus as they will help us keep the right perspective in our faith journey. The bottom line is that we all stand in need of God’s mercy and forgiveness because we are all sinners. There is no way we can earn our way to heaven or even perform enough sacrifices that will cause God to favor us. No, we are completely dependent on God’s mercy and compassion.

This basis provides us with enough reason to beware of judging others. Jesus can judge because He is without sin. We must always remember that we are sinners. And, as sinners, it is better to avoid judging others lest the criteria we use will be used against us by God. He is certainly bigger than that; however, if we desire to avoid being hypocrites, then we must avoid judging others no matter how sinful they may be.

Of course, we are perfectly free to judge an action as sinful but let us not presume that we know enough to judge the person who committed the sin. I doubt any of us has any real desire to be known for the bad things we have done. It is much better to simply repent of our sins and walk with others in support of them as they try to do the same thing.

That Jesus chooses a tax collector to be one of His disciples tells us that He does not lose hope when we sin. He is willing to forgive and give us second chances. Let us follow His example. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

---------- REFLECTION QUESTION ----------

Do you tend to be a judgmental person? Or do you prefer to focus on a person’s strengths and encourage them so that they can leave their sins behind?

Jesus, You always give me second chances. Help me to do the same in my relationships with others. Amen.

Today, I pray for: ___________________________