The WORD in other words (2010) by Fr. Mike Mahinay,SVD – Dinagat Islands
I am amazed how easily we judge others. Without much effort we label a person according to one’s personality and traits. This is what happened to Matthew as observed by the Pharisees. But the Lord is quicker than what they think he is. He was able to anticipate their intentions thus giving them a straight punch on their faces. As a consequence, they left dumbfounded and perhaps have learned their lessons well.
Matthew’s openness to the embrace of the Lord by accepting his own shortcomings and sinfulness led him to the transformation of his life.
We do similar things like the Pharisees. We judge hastily as we see and know the person. At times we forget that we also have our own weaknesses and sinfulness in God’s eyes. Today’s Gospel reminds us that God’s love for sinners is far beyond our understanding. God is whispering to us that inspite of the wrongdoings we have done, we are still precious in His eyes … all we have to do is approach Him with a sincere and humble heart. He is telling us that after all life has a meaning.
An unknown author expressed this spiritual truth poetically :
“If there is a future there is time for mending-
Time to see your troubles coming to an ending.
Life is never hopeless however great your sorrow-
If you’re looking forward to a new tomorrow.
If there is time for wishing then there is time for hoping-
When through doubt and darkness you are blindly groping.
Though the heart be heavy and hurt you may be feeling-
If there is time for praying there is time for healing.
So if through your window there is a new day breaking-
Thank God for the promise, though mind and soul be aching,
If with harvest over there is grain enough for gleaning-
There is a new tomorrow and life still has meaning.”
Finally, just remember that what Mother Teresa herself said : “if you judge people, you have no time to love them.”
