St. Paul reminds us today that the grace of Our Lord has been wonderfully abundant in our daily living. Because of God’s good grace we gain perspective and insight. Going a step further, such personal insight can help me notice and deal with those “wooden beams and splinters” in my own eyes. Perhaps such reflection can then help me understand more clearly just how to go about removing those “beams and splinters” in my attitudes and actions, my prejudices and selfish habits.
The beginning of the school year offers a great time for such reflection: how do I want to come across to others this weekend? What sharp edges of my conversation and daily actions need attention? How can I listen more closely to others rather than simply spouting off my personal opinions? In the process, can I pay more attention to the Lord who counsels me, “who even at night directs my heart.”
—The Jesuit Prayer Team