Judgmental

“They are so judgmental!” some people say (often referring to churchgoers).

Of course, by making such a statement, they could easily be accused of being judgmental themselves!

Whoever we are, we should seriously and carefully take to heart St. Paul’s words in today’s first reading (Romans 2:1-11): words directed not just to the ancient Roman Christians, but to me and to you.

You, O man, are without excuse,
every one of you who passes judgment.

For by the standard by which you judge another
you condemn yourself,
since you, the judge,
do the very same things.

We know
that the judgment of God on those who do such things
is true.

Do you suppose, then,
you who judge those who engage in such things
and yet do them yourself,
that you will escape the judgment of God?

Or do you hold
his priceless kindness, forbearance, and patience
in low esteem,
unaware that the kindness of God
would lead you to repentance?

By your stubbornness and impenitent heart,
you are storing up wrath for yourself
for the day of wrath and revelation
of the just judgment of God,
who will repay everyone according to his works,
eternal life to those
who seek glory, honor, and immortality
through perseverance in good works,
but wrath and fury to those
who selfishly disobey the truth
and obey wickedness.

St. Paul is not saying that we should stop trying to speak about what is right and what is wrong in the world, but he is telling us desperately to keep an eye on our own imperfections and to be urgent in our own repentance and continuing conversion.

Lord Jesus Christ, son of the living God, be merciful to me – a sinner.