Luke 6:39-42
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Take a moment to settle into your surroundings and then begin to recognize your breath. As you breathe in, call on the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Recall that Jesus is speaking about the human tendency to judge and condemn others in contrast to God’s original design for human relationships. Then read Luke 6:39-42.
We might paraphrase Jesus’ teaching here as “Be careful who you admire and follow – you will become like them.” A judgmental person makes a dangerous leader because the poison in his or her soul leaks out and contaminates those who follow.
Take some time to prayerfully consider the people to whom you listen most. Consider whom you look to for advice, who’s books or writings you read, whom you trust for spiritual guidance.
What qualities characterize these influencers in your life? Talk with Jesus about this.
Read Luke 6:39-42 again with these thoughts in mind.
In the second part of this passage, Jesus turns the mirror away from those we admire and follow and turns it back to us. We all lead and influence to one degree or another - if not with large groups of people, then with our family members or friends. And if we aren’t careful to deal with our own judgmental attitudes, we will be completely unaware that our negativity is leaking out even when we believe we are being helpful. We become blind guides by being blind to our own blindness.
The essence of sin is attempting to be like God without God. In the Kingdom of Heaven, people allow God to be God and they give grace to one another in the name of Jesus.
Become still and let all your thoughts settle. Remember that Jesus came to save and restore us; not to condemn us. Let this assurance settle over you.
Now take some time to listen to Jesus.
What might Jesus want you to do as a result of his teaching today?
How will you respond?
Subscribe here to receive these guided meditations free by email Monday-Friday each week. If you find these meditations helpful, please forward them to a couple of friends.
The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
