CYCLE II: HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (1)

CYCLE II: HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

HOMILY THEME: DO NOT JUDGE

BY: Fr. Benny Tuazon

HOMILY: (Mt. 7:1-5) Monday of the Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

In today’s Gospel Jesus warns His disciples on making judgments on others. He must have observed the righteousness of the Pharisees and some Jews who are relentless in criticizing others while being guilty of what they accuse others of. Indeed, how can one make clear and good judgments when they themselves do not see, or worse, deny their own defects. For Jesus, that is the height of hypocrisy and lack of charity.

Jesus did not mean that we turn a blind eye, deaf ear, mute tongue, numbed feelings, and unmindful of disorders, abuses, immoralities, and sinful acts around us. That would be committing sins of omission. We would be irresponsible neighbors. Jesus teaches fraternal correction. It is necessary that we call the attention of others regarding their unchristian behavior. If we must forgive, we do so if only to show our true and honest intentions. However, extreme care must be given when we render criticisms and corrections. It should be constructive. It means that they are made out of love and not to destroy. This, I believe is the difference between being judgmental and concerned.

Furthermore, to judge means permanently rendering the person to a certain unwanted attitude. It is the same as being sentenced to the prison of that attitude. It eliminates the possibility of repentance and conversion. The human person is full of possibilities. For this reason, no person can make judgments on others. Only God can.

Treat others always with love. Render that love at all times. At times, criticisms maybe painful. We just hope that the person will be open and accept positively what they are told. God treats us this way. He never judges us. He loves us. Let us take advantage of that love. And let us share that love to others by not being judgmental.