‘‘First take the log out of your own eye’ (Luke 6:42)’

I think we are all familiar with this reading and its common use friend ‘pot calling the kettle black.’ We seem to feel the need to comment on the faults we see in others so readily but seemingly are oblivious to the enormous clangers in our own lives. Is it because it is too painful, too humiliating to face up to our own business? Do we not see ourselves honestly? Do we lack humility? Are we just mean?

This is not one of those parables where Jesus gives us a kind or easy answer to the problem. He pretty much says ‘get your house in order or you are not a lot of use to me.’

It is a mighty challenge. It is so much less taxing to have a go at someone else then sit with our own sin. That is not comfortable at all! Maybe it is time to sit and reflect, to look at ourselves and recognise where we freely give out ‘advice’ when it would be more beneficial for everyone if we looked inside instead. Maybe we start by going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation to ask for forgiveness for what we have said to our sister or brother. Maybe we try to stay quiet and not chip in our 5 cents worth. Maybe we will then see the plank and start work on getting it gone. Only then will we be of use to the kingdom.