One of the oldest known mirrors is a smooth piece of obsidian from six thousand years ago, found at an archaeological site in Turkey. Technology has come a long way since then, but it still shows only a hairstyle and sleepy eyes—never the state of the heart. This image opens the sermon on Jesus’ words: “Do not judge; first remove the plank from your own eye; do not cast your pearls before swine” (Matt. 7:1–6). It’s not about turning a blind eye to sin, but about serving others with gentleness instead of passing judgment—and, when dealing with people for whom the Bible holds no authority, asking God for wisdom about when to speak and when instead to proclaim Christ through your life. Listen, if you want to see whether it’s easier for you to spot a problem in your neighbor’s yard than in your own.
When to Speak and When Not To?
Jesus the Way: Through Conflict
Our world is torn by conflicts. We have little influence over those of an international or political nature. However, each of us has an impact on relationships in our immediate surroundings, and even that world is not free from anger, disputes, arguments, and hurt feelings.
As we listen to Jesus’ teachings, we will try to discover what it means that Christ is the Way through conflict. We will reflect on how following Jesus affects the way we deal with anger, resolve misunderstandings, and treat those who hurt us.
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