Wooden beams and splinters. Reminds me of the time in Pine Ridge when lightning hit one of our outhouses and shredded the 2 x 4's supporting the roof into a million (it seemed) toothpicks. It was clear that there is a difference between a beam and a splinter!
Jesus challenges us in today's Gospel (Lk: 9: 39-42) to check the wooden beam in our own eye before chiding a neighbor for the splinter in his or hers. It's so easy to criticize others for even minor "faults" and not see the major ones in our own lives. It takes perspective and humility to see with the clarity of vision Jesus had, which enabled him to see God's presence in people and see his presence in the actions around us. One of the first things we can do is admit that we don't have that clarity of vision, and ask for it. Then we can ask for the strength, and even courage it takes to work on our own shortcomings, and then, if needs be, approach others in a more gentle and compassionate way, instead of coming on like a sledge hammer.
Bro. Rene
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