From a human standpoint, it must have been a reality shock for Jesus, going from living quietly at home with His mother the Blessed Virgin Mary and His foster father St. Joseph, to life on the road with the twelve apostles. Though the gospels do not reflect that He gave them much individual spiritual advice, there are constant messages for them and for us. In the gospel of today, we have Christ reminding them about correcting others. "How can you say to your brother, 'Brother let me remove the splinter in your eye,' when you do not even notice the wooden beam in your own eye?" (Luke 6:42)
There is an old saying that when we point our finger at someone else, our thumb is pointing back at us. Often the problem that we are having with another person is also our own fault, but it is easier to criticize another. It is not easy to face and address our own weaknesses and faults, but it is our responsibility to do so, as we strive to live our lives as Christians. Perhaps the reminder that Christ creates and loves us always, can serve as solid motivation to continue the struggle. God is a merciful God, but we need to turn to Him for that mercy. What a joy!
Weekend blessings,
Father Ed Bakker
Anglican Catholic Church / Original Province
Mission of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne
Bendigo Australia
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