Monday 25 February 2019

Psalm: Psalm 82

Background

The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus’ longest speech, found in Matthew chapters 5, 6 and 7. Jesus was a carpenter and used wood as a description to help explain that those who think they are pure and innocent should really take a look at themselves first. To make judgement on someone for the "speck of sawdust" that is in their eye is nothing compared to the "plank of wood" in your own eye. The two comparisons couldn’t be more obvious and are actually quite funny imagery.

Are there situations where some of us are quick to pass judgement on others, calling people out on their mistakes and possibly not even realising our own faults? As we pray for the kingdom this week we should always take a breath to think that actually we might be just as bad or in some cases worse and therefore in no position to offer our thoughts on other people’s lives. Verse 5 says “… you hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from the other person’s eye.”

To Ponder:

• Reflect on your own misgivings – how can you continue to work to be a better person for Christ?
• As you reflect, listen to the hymn 'Give me joy in my heart' (Singing the Faith 76).
• Pray that you may be guided by this reading today.