Wednesday of the Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Scripture

In many ways our readings today continue the theme of yesterday challenging us to an examination of our interior life.  The readings remind us that we need to understand our call discipleship and how our actions define us and our relationship with God.  In St. Paul’s letter to the Roman’s, Paul is admonishing the community in Rome to use great care to let God be the judge of others. 

The influence of our polarized media culture has given each of us the ammunition to judge our brothers and sisters.  Not only this, it provides us with the affirmation to know that our judging of others is correct.  We have just enough information to make ourselves dangerous.  We need to realize that our condemning of others in many ways condemns ourselves.  As St. Paul says, “you are storing up wrath for yourself.” (Rom 2:5)  The psalm continues the theme stating that the Lord will give back to each of us according to our works.

When our actions are negative, they beget more negative action.  When our works reflect God’s kindness, then we lead ourselves and others to God’s love and salvation.  Reflect on the ways you judge others.  If there is a specific person or set of actions you condemn in others, pray for the perseverance to allow God to be the only judge.  God’s judgment is the only one that counts and He alone is just.

“Lord, give us the determination to be disciples whose actions only give glory, honor and praise to You.  Teach us to hold your kindness as priceless, so that with patience, our souls will find rest in You alone.”

Amen! 

 - Michael Montgomery