Father, you are greater than anyone or anything in all the universe. For you created all that is, all that was, and all that is to come. There is no one like you. From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. Why do we judge people for their faults and sins? You sent Jesus into the world, not to judge the world, but to save it. In Jesus’ own words, “For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it” (John 12:47). And again, in John 3:17, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” Father, you created Jesus to be the exact representation of your being. And you call me to be like him. So then, help me to not judge people for their faults and sins. Was Jesus not merciful and gracious to the Samaritan woman at the well who was engaged in immoral living? He did not judge her, but gently pointed her toward himself and the truth. And the whole town began to follow Jesus because of it! Father, I long to be like Jesus. I want to accept all who are around me, no matter their faults or sins. It is so easy to see other people’s faults and sins. It is so easy to condemn them silently. Yet I am also full of faults and sins. Who am I to condemn them for theirs? This is not like you, even though you are perfect, righteous, and holy. You are kind and merciful and gracious toward all. You hope that all will turn to you to be rescued from their faults and sins. This is how I want to be. Just like you. May I be hopeful that all will turn to you. Merciful and gracious toward all whom my life touches. Make me like Jesus, Father. This is my prayer. Amen.
