Scripture
Luke 6:36-37, 41-42
36 Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.
37 “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;
41 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 42 How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother's eye.
For the Adults:
Jesus says, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.” Withholding judgment is a spiritual discipline. It’s the practice of replacing condemnation with mercy and humility. Passing judgment is the opposite of humility because it elevates ourselves above others and makes us blind to our own mistakes. The plank in our eyes prevents us from seeing ourselves and others clearly. Being judgmental of others creates an atmosphere where hate thrives and love is in short supply. Certainly the social media platforms used today allow an easy access for judgment (good, bad & ugly) when a user posts something on their wall or page. This can be so hurtful when criticism and judgmental comments are posted instead of positive thoughts.
To be sure, judgment is not to be confused with keeping each other accountable for wrongdoing and standing up against injustice. We can address sin with empathy while understanding our own position as sinners saved by grace. When we practice withholding judgment, we practice compassion, sympathy and the way of peace in our souls. Our hearts become soft towards our neighbor, allowing us to love freely as Christ has loved us. For it was Christ who said, “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). If we all practiced this commandment – the world would be a more peaceful place!
As we watch the George Floyd tragedy and its impact on the black American community unfold, perhaps the most compassionate response is simply preaching Jesus’ gospel of repentance and walking with them. Let’s open our ears to listen, open our eyes to face the racism embedded in all cultures, starting with our own. Many of us have judged people by the color of their skin. Let’s empower each other to live with humble courage to love our neighbor, pray for those who persecute us and to be merciful, just as our heavenly Father is merciful.
For the Kiddos:
Enter:
How does Luke 6 speak to your heart?
Is there someone or a group of people you tend to pass judgment on?
Which enemy is God inviting you to love and pray for today?
Hear:
Read the Bible Passages. (Luke 6:36-37, 41-42, Mark 12:31 (ESV)) For younger children, a picture Bible may be used.
Pause
Take a few seconds, or maybe a minute to sit with the scripture in silence. This might be a great time to choose a different place to do your devotional time. Maybe sit outside or in the backyard and be still and let God’s word work in their hearts!
Wonder:
What social media platform do you think is the worst when it comes to judgmental comments & posts? FaceBook? Twitter? Instagram? Snapchat?
How can we take a stand against injustice with humility and grace?
How can we better understand someone who is different than us?
Bless:
Affirm what was discussed about the story.
Have a oath with God to only post positive and encouraging comments on social media.
If you see injustice in this world – then do something!
Praise God, Give thanks, Pray for others, confess sins, Praise God!
Example:
Father God, we ask for your forgiveness for the ways we may have passed judgment on others. Help us to have open hearts and always seek justice and righteousness as you do. Give us courage to see others the way we see ourselves and to see ourselves as forgiven and free. Show us how to be discipline in our walk on the path of humility and grace. Bring hope and healing to our nation. We pray all this in the mighty name of Jesus! – Amen!