Monday of the 12th week in Ordinary Time, Year C. Mt. 7:1-5

Stop judging that you may not be judged. The word judgement could mean both “to discern” and “to condemn.” More often, we use the second meaning and we take over God's prerogative by condemning others. Jesus, instead, is inviting us to practice self-reflection and humility. By teaching that we'll be judged by the same standard we use to judge others, he encourages compassion over condemnation. St. Benedict, in his rule, invites us as he did for his monks to focus on self-improvement: recognize our own flaws and wrongdoings, not dwelling on other's shortcomings, avoid destructive and harmful talk or gossip and excessive criticism based judgmental attitudes. St. Benedict insists rather in the spirit of love and understanding towards those who face difficulties. Stop judging would truly mean avoiding creating a circle of negativity but rather promote charity, compassion, and truth.

Jesus, I trust in you
Fr. Georges sac