A sick person is not necessarily sick all over. Certain organs may be perfectly healthy. Someone may be desperately ill and still have good eyesight. While some bodily members may be weak, others are very strong. It is the same way in the spiritual life. One may be healthy in this and that area, but not in another. There is always some imperfection. For this reason, Christians are instructed by their Lord not to be judgmental of others. Regardless of who or what they are, the rule applies. They could be outcasts of society, bad people. But we are to consider everyone the same way. Never judge, despise, and classify another person. Regard everyone as flawless. If someone is crippled, see that person as not crippled. It is an indicator of purity of heart when you can look at a sinner and have mercy, notice a weak person, and feel compassion. Christians will have an attitude that is simply different from secular people. Their minds work another way. They belong to another world. We belong to Christ. This is a small piece of a larger homily whose author is lost to history; however, I think it is good advice, particularly in relationships and marriages. The preacher’s advice of “never classify another person, regard everyone as flawless, [know that you] belong to Christ” are assets in any relationship. Put these to practice! See where it leads you…I would guess to greener pastures.  This Week’s Readings: Monday – Titus 2 Tuesday – Titus 3 Wednesday – Jude1-25 Thursday – Philemon 1-25 Friday – Hebrews 1 Prayer Requests: *Teachers, students, and parents as the school year continues. *Heal those who are sick and protect those who are not. *Comfort those who are grieving and in distress. *Wisdom for our leaders as they navigate through uncertain times. *Guidance for those seeking to find their way. *Continued Growth Inside and Outside the Walls of St. Paul UMC. |
| “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6 |