“Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion…” Hebrews 3:8 NKJV
Today my oldest son stated that I’m “less judgmental than I was five to seven years ago.”
Surely, I hadn’t heard him correctly. “Excuse me?!”
Was I a terror those years ago?
Maybe.
My mini-me calls it like he sees it.
He views most churches as “hypocritical.” He believes many Christians are judgmental and don’t even attempt to love their “neighbors” as Jesus instructed.
Teenagers.
So, annoying when they are correct.
Thankfully, the kid does believe in God.
Faith in organized “church?”
Not so much.
Yet, he managed to hear something today that penetrated his thick skull.Today’s sermon focused on the second chapter of James, especially the verses about favoritism and mercy.
The chapter ends with “Mercy triumphs over judgement.”
“Less judgmental.”
Seven or so years ago, I had a lot going on. Lots of changes, not all of them positive. I’ve had my “trials” that effectively served up a fair dose of correction, humility and mercy.
Like most people, I was trying to do my best. However, it was not good enough. I’m pretty sure I was left tired, angry, and bitter. I thought I was keeping my feelings to myself.
Apparently not.
Cam’s comment made me realize that people tend to be most judgmental when they are angry, broken and in a state of struggle. Lashing out at others is one way insecure and bitter people vent, release anger and irrationally view themselves in a more positive light.
What are we really doing when tearing others down?
Are our motives pure?
Is condemning people the way to draw them to God?
Judgement is not the love Christ commanded. Let alone mercy.
Jesus loved the people who needed Him most. Tax collectors. Harlots. Sinners.
People repented when healed, loved and touched by the Master. It is the “sick” who need the Physician. We are all “sick” at various times in our lives.
God’s love transforms people.
I am grateful God has made me less judgmental, at least in my child’s eyes. I am trying to parent by example. Trying.
Most of us strive to behave better, but how can we gauge our progress?
My oldest child provides checks and balances for me. Even if unsolicited.
If we take time to truly listen to others, we may learn from them where we are in regards to the changes we seek.
Is a compliment on my new outfit an indicator that I’m stylish, or a reminder I’m spending money I should be saving?
If someone comments they haven’t seen you in a while, does it mean you’ve abandoned “questionable” company or confirmation your church participation may not be what it should be?
God often speaks to us through other people, if only we have ears to hear…
“He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” Matthew 11:15 NKJV