Monday of week 12 in Ordinary Time
Saints John Fisher, Bishop, and Thomas More, Martyrs
Saint Paulinus of Nola, Bishop ●
Gospel: Matthew 7:1-5In today’s Gospel, Jesus warns us about the folly of judging others: “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?” Judgment often arises from pride, insecurity, or the illusion that we fully understand another person’s heart, struggles, and intentions. Yet only God sees the whole truth. To judge others harshly is contrary to the fundamental commandment of Jesus: to love one another as He has loved us. Love seeks to understand before condemning, to accompany rather than exclude, and to show mercy instead of superiority. This does not mean ignoring wrongdoing or abandoning truth, but approaching others with humility, compassion, and awareness of our own need for forgiveness. Jesus invites us first to examine our own hearts, recognizing our weaknesses and allowing God’s grace to transform us. Only a humble heart can help others without wounding them. On the memorials of Saint John Fisher, Saint Thomas More, and Saint Paulinus of Nola, we remember men who lived with integrity and fidelity to the truth while remaining rooted in charity and humility. The Gospel reminds us that every judgment we make about others should pass through the lens of the mercy we ourselves have received from God. Let’s reflect: Do I look at others through the eyes of judgment and superiority, or through the eyes of Christ, allowing His mercy to help me recognize my own need for conversion before I judge anyone else?
Don Giorgio