Saints John Fisher, Bishop, and Thomas More, Martyrs
Paulinus of Nola, Bishop
2 Kings 17:5-8,13-15,18 ·
Psalm 59(60):3-5,12-13
Matthew 7:1-5
Today’s readings invite us to take an honest look at our hearts, encouraging self-examination and spiritual reflection. In the Book of Kings, the people of Israel experience the painful consequences of turning away from God, a decline that did not occur suddenly but resulted from years of gradually ignoring His voice, embracing false idols, and following other nations’ pagan practices. Their downfall was marked by political instability, social injustice, and loss of divine favor, demonstrating how persistent disobedience can lead to spiritual ruin.
In the Gospel, Jesus offers a challenging and timeless lesson: before scrutinizing others’ faults, we must first examine our own lives carefully, acknowledging our shortcomings with humility. The “wooden beam” in our eye symbolizes any obstacle—such as pride, resentment, prejudice, or the illusion that we have complete control—that blurs our ability to see clearly and act justly.
Today, let us ask for the grace of a humble heart—one that sincerely recognizes its own limitations and extends to others the same tenderness and mercy Christ continually offers us, filling our efforts with compassion and grace.May God answer our prayers. Amen.
Fr Joseph Osho
