Courageous Disciples, Week 4, Day 2
Empathy Skill #2: To be Non-judgmental
Read
Yes, you also read this yesterday. Keep reading. There’s a reason we’re returning to it today, too.
If you’ve read this passage before (see what I did there?) you’ve likely wondered, “What did Jesus write in the ground?” Did he really “write” any words? Or was it Jesus’ way of pausing to consider the complexity of the situation before him?
Maybe the words, “You are forgiven” came to mind as he knelt before the people gathered. Perhaps he wrote, “You are a beloved child of God.”
Or maybe it was, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.” The Shema (Deut 6:4-9) surely would have been top of Jesus’ mind as he recited it morning, noon and night.
The real answer to our wondering is, “I don’t know.” I don’t know what Jesus wrote and neither do you.
But what emerged at that moment was non-judgment from the Son of God. He modeled for a group bringing judgment on how to model accountability and love in the same breath.
What a gift to know that Jesus meets us where we are and loves us for who we are, not for what we have done or left undone. That includes all the good things and the not so good things, friends.
Reflect
Where are you prone to judge others? Consider the places you feel inadequate or are the most susceptible to shame.
Respond
Today, practice non-judgment. Acknowledge your feelings. Remain accountable. Extend love and compassion. Apply these statements to yourself, too.
Pray
Jesus, forgive me for the places I judge others and help me to stand in a place of compassion and wisdom today and always. Amen.
Return
Where did you judge others today? What did you do to practice non-judgment?
Extra Thoughts
If you haven’t taken a moment to review the “Overview of It Takes Courage” please do so. You’ll find a few tips that will help you start this journey.
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