Scripture: Luke 6:37-38
Do not judge, view and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

Thought for the Day: As a performer, I’m used to being judged. All through high school and college I was in competitions where my performance and musical ability were judged. In fact in college, your final performance exam is called “juries.” One of the reasons shows like American Idol are so popular is because of the judging panel.

Life is not a talent show though. Generally, when we judge others, it’s not about their talent (or lack of it), but because of some trespass against us, perceived or real. However, Scripture implies that nobody deserves to be judged and condemned, even for heinous errors. We’re to forgive ”seventy times seven.” This is difficult for us, especially if someone has instigated something as heinous as say, the Holocaust. Yet Jesus forgave everyone he met, even those who crucified him, setting a powerful example for the rest of us.

Prayer: I know you forgive me when I mess up, Merciful Lord. Compel me to do the same for others. Amen.