Read Luke 6:37-49
We can be quick to notice the sins and faults of others. Sometimes we are bold enough to confront someone directly, but often we prefer to judge them in our thoughts or talk about them behind their backs. Instead of letting God’s law reveal the depths of our own sinfulness, we twist it to highlight the wretchedness of others—which makes us feel better about ourselves. But Satan already works as the accuser, condemning people and pointing out their unworthiness of God’s love, grace, and mercy. We don’t need to help him.
God has given us mercy so that we can live under a different paradigm. Having received mercy ourselves, we are called to show mercy to others. First, this means confronting our own sin honestly, without fear of condemnation or Satan’s accusations. Our sin is ever before us, yet so too is God’s grace in Christ.
Second, it means approaching the sins of others with compassion. This does not mean ignoring wrongdoing. But when we come alongside someone to confront sin out of love and care, it looks very different than judgmental accusation. Mercy transforms how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we act toward both.
Prayer: Father, do not look upon my sin with the same judgment I so often pass on others. I appeal to your mercy in Jesus Christ; please forgive me and help me to respond to the sins of others with the same mercy you have given me. Amen.