Scripture: Romans 2:1b
…for in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, are doing the very same things.
Thought for the Day: I have never been a fan of the old saying, “Hate the sin, but love the sinner.” It’s catchy, but it is most often used as a self-righteous ploy to belittle those who we do not like or do not understand. Mark Lowry is a Christian comedian and songwriter, and I think he summed up my opinions very well when he said, “Love the sinner, hate the sin? How about: Love the sinner, hate your own sin! I don’t have time to hate your sin. There are too many of you! Hating my sin is a full-time job. How about you hate your sin, I’ll hate my sin, and let’s just love each other!” The idea of judging others, but doing it with syrupy sweet talk, was not among the tasks Jesus gave to the church. By loving others, what you may discover is that what you hated about the other person and thought was a sin, was in fact nothing more than your own insecurities hiding behind holier-than-thou language.
Prayer: Forgive me, O Loving Lord, for all those moments when judgmental words and thoughts seized the faithful compassion you had placed in my heart. Encourage me to love as you love. Amen.
