Judge me not

Life has changed dramatically from the days of console television to our enormous flatscreen viewing. Adjusting knobs or turning an antenna to bring in a channel have faded into modern technology. However, there was a time when one channel was the complete package of our entertainment. It’s incredible to think about how much the way we consume media has evolved over the years!
I remember one night, an infomercial popped up, and regardless of where we turned the antenna, it was the only thing playing. For 30 minutes, there was a constant display of heart-wrenching images of children suffering from poverty in a third-world country. It was the first time I understood what hunger looked like. It was an eye-opening and unforgettable experience that sparked a deep sense of empathy within me.
I vividly recall being 10 years old and asking my dad, “Why do people have children if they cannot feed them?” His response was truly eye-opening. He explained that people often find themselves in challenging situations due to the aftermath of war or food shortages caused by crop failures from drought. But the most important thing he emphasized was that these parents loved their children just as much as he loved me.
I’ll never forget when my mom offered a cup of coffee to a man who had spoken ill of her and Dad. Despite his initial rejection, her kind gesture eventually led to reconciliation. My parents weren’t perfect, but they could see beyond surface conflicts, understanding the underlying causes of situations. The most powerful lessons of life are taught by example.
Our parents taught us not to judge others because we do not always know what life has brought them. People react from fear, hurt, and disappointment. Often, these reactions fall in judgment. Yet our Lord has said that we are not to judge, and if we do, that same judgment will fall upon us. We cannot look at the dust in our brothers’ eyes because of the plank that blinds us (Matthew 7:1-5). How can we judge others when our lives are a tangled-up mess?
No one is ever born with thoughts of war or prejudice. No child desires to grow up and become an addict or homeless. Our alleyways and sidewalks are filled with people born with possibilities, yet circumstances happened, stealing their potential from them. If, through faith, we could see the pain behind the action, then grace could bring healing to the lost.
Jesus spoke against the judgment of others when a woman was thrown at His feet. She had been caught in the act of adultery, and those who judged her stood with stones. Yet, as Jesus wrote some unknown script in the sand, their stones fell to the ground. The Lord lifted the woman to her feet, freeing her from condemnation (John 8:1-11).
As I look back on my failings, I realize the freedom I have found in faith and the grace that has lifted me. There are so many influences that have shaped my journey. Through my parents’ teachings, I have understood the importance of empathy and compassion. Through faith, I have learned the danger of passing judgment and the joy of grace. I have come to believe that if we look into the heart of the individual, then maybe, just maybe, we can learn to see each other through the eyes of our Heavenly Father.
Romans 14:13 Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.

Cheryl Mixon-Cruce is Pastor of Ochlockonee Bay United Methodist Church and Sopchoppy United Methodist Church.