The Judgement of God

Readings for Wednesday October 14, 2009

First Reading: Romans 2:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 62
Gospel: Luke 11:42-46


Do you suppose, then, you who judge those who engage in such things and yet do them yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you hold his priceless kindness, forbearance, and patience in low esteem, unaware that the kindness of God would lead you to repentance? By your stubbornness and impenitent heart, you are storing up wrath for yourself for the day of wrath and revelation of the just judgment of God, who will repay everyone according to his works, eternal life to those who seek glory, honor, and immortality through perseverance in good works, but wrath and fury to those who selfishly disobey the truth and obey wickedness. (Rom 2:3-8)

Judgement, this is something of which I believe that the majority of us struggle with. Many of us are quick to judge other people, their actions, and behaviors. Most of the time it is because of an insecurity that we judge. I cannot tell you how many times I have judged and compared myself with someone else, and while doing that I would think, "well at least I am not as bad as that person." How many times have we justified our actions or insecurities by telling ourselves that we are not as bad as someone else? We cannot judge other people just so we can feel better about our behaviors, nor can we allow our own insecurities to guide our actions in this life. We must remember that we are human and we will always fall short, but with the grace of God we can rise up above our insecurities, our tendency to judge, and all of our worldly ways.

Saint Paul warns us today of judging others and of storing up wrath in our heart. He tells us wisely that if we are hypocritical and judge others without following the rules ourselves, then this sort of behavior cannot escape the judgement of God. Jesus said in the gospels that the measure upon which we measure will be measured out to us. Saint Paul is certainly reminding us of this message from our Lord. We have a choice to make in this life; we can hold on to worldly things and worldly ways, or we can hold on to God and His ways. If we persevere through this life doing the good works that we are called to, then one day when we leave this earth we can stand before God and hear those beautiful words, "Well done good and faithful servant."

We cannot escape the judgement of God, may our works always honor and glorify Him who gave us life.

Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, you alone are the way, the truth and the light; may we never stray from your love and goodness. Lord, help to increase our faith so that we may go out in this world and do good works for your glory. Lord, forgive us for the times in which we have judged others and for all of the times which we fall short. We pray for all of our priests and our religious; for their ministries and for strength in their vows. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.