Accept and Don’t Cast Stones

I’m not sure why, but everyone seems to be able to judge others.  Some of us do this in a mild way, keeping our opinions to ourselves, and others of us tell everyone how we feel about someone else.  Most of the time it is in a negative way. How did we come to this place? Certainly, the media fosters this every day.  We are surrounded by people who judge others.  I guess we are a product of our environment.  We need to slow down and accept others, and absolutely stop throwing stones.  Usually when we throw stones, we do so from within our own glass house!  We can find just as much fault or wrong within ourselves as we can with others.  All of creation is fallen and no one is free from the consequences of sin.  When we acknowledge that we ourselves are sinners needing the grace of God, just as those around us, we can put everything in perspective. 

This lesson brings to mind the prior lessons about Listening Generously; Listening to another to understand not to judge or agree and Assume Positive Intent; When you assume you will find negativity, you will find it!  When you assume you will find positivity you will find it.   When you learn about someone through a conversation, and you assume they want to do the right thing, you can learn to accept them for who they are, and not cast stones for being different that you are or have different ideas than you do.  In the end you can love them as Christ loves you.

God’s love opens the doors of our church to all people. Just as Jesus did, welcome people as they are. It’s not up to us to judge. Love unconditionally, and as Christ has received you, receive others.

“Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious

law complain that he was associating with such sinful people –even eating with them!” (Luke 15: 1, 2)

“Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.” (Romans 15: 7)

Ideas for Action: Approach someone you normally avoid at church for whatever reason. Make a point of speaking to them this week.