1 Cor 4: 1-5
Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. I do not even judge myself. I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted.
It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive commendation from God.
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
To Mean Not To
A friend of mine and fellow educator once shared with me a phrase she often used when talking with a student who had offended another. If the student who had been judged guilty said, “I didn’t mean to,” she would say, “It’s not enough to not mean to do something. You need to mean not to do it.” In other words, we must choose our words and actions with mindfulness and intention to avoid causing harm out of carelessness. As in the passage above, even if I am not aware of having done something hurtful, it doesn’t mean I haven’t. As a steward of God’s mysteries, can I be trusted to recognize and care for the sacred, inherent dignity of all whom I encounter? Do I have the self-awareness to know when my words or actions cause harm, even without my meaning to?
— Karen Wuertz is the Boys Division Head at Regis Jesuit High School.
Prayer
O Lord, help me to keep my heart open to all whom I encounter today. Let me listen more than speak, and proceed with curiosity, rather than judgment. May I be a faithful servant and trustworthy steward of your mysteries. Amen.
—Karen Wuertz