“It is very easy to sit in judgment upon the behavior of others, but often difficult to realize that every judgment is a self-judgment. . . . What I condemn in others may be but a reflection of myself in the mirror.”- Howard Thurman (1899-1981), theologian and civil rights leader
“In the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”- Matthew 7:21 (NIV)
“How can I pass judgment when I don’t know the full truth about myself/”- Abba Joseph, Desert Father
As Rich Villodas moves on in Chapter 10 of The Narrow Path, he explores two kinds of judgmental attitudes.
1. Existential Judgment (Judging Another Person’s Heart). Only God knows the inner workings of another person’s heart. Certainly, we are not God. Hence, to withhold judgment is not merely a moral act. It’s also a theological act. Because to do so means we humbly accept that we are not God.
2. Eschatological Judgment (Judging Another Person’s Final Destination). When Jesus tells us not to judge, He doesn’t mean we must withhold all judgment. On a human level, Rich notes, that’s impossible. Rather, Jesus tells us not to pass final judgment on a person.
Therefore, Jesus lets us know that we are in no position to declare or predict the final spiritual condition of a person. God alone serves as the righteous judge who adjudicates.
Above all, Rich cautions, we find ourselves in dangerous territory when we dare to judge another person’s heart. Or forecast their final destiny. Yet, Jesus condones one type of judgment.
In conclusion, Rich stresses, judgment begins with yourself. Anything else is hypocrisy. Rich explains:
“Jesus’ point is not that those around us don’t have significant issues for which they need guidance and direction, but in the light of our self-examination, the issues of others are put into perspective. Judgment of others then comes from a place of humility, not pride.”
Today’s question: Do you agree with Howard Thurman that every judgment is a self-judgment? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Self-examination over judging”
Yes! Every judgement is an invitation for self reflection!