Need of Removing the Wooden beam from ones own eye

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twenty Third Week :  Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:39-42*

*First Reading : 1 Tm 1:1-2, 12-14*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 16:1b-2a and 5, 7-8, 11*

*Need of Removing the Wooden beam from ones own eye*

*1) Self-awareness before judgment*

At the heart of this teaching is a call to deep self-awareness. 

It’s easy to critique or correct others, but much harder to turn the mirror inward. 

The “wooden beam” represents our own faults — often larger or more serious than the minor issues we point out in others. 

This metaphor invites us to practice introspection before rushing to critique others.

How often do I judge others without first examining my own motivations, actions, or attitudes?

*2) The danger of hypocrisy*

Jesus calls such behavior hypocrisy — pretending to be morally upright while being blind to one’s own flaws. 

This kind of hypocrisy damages relationships, erodes trust, and misrepresents truth. 

Correcting others without humility and honesty about our own shortcomings leads to moral arrogance.

Am I more concerned with appearing right than actually being right in character and heart?

*3) True correction starts with humility* 

The teaching doesn’t say we should never help others with their “specks.” 

But it says we must first deal with ourselves. Only then can we “see clearly” — that is, only through humility and self-purification can we be of real help to others. 

This protects both parties: the one correcting doesn’t do harm, and the one being corrected receives guidance that is compassionate and wise.

When I correct others, is it with a clean conscience and a compassionate spirit, or with pride and superiority?

*4) A lifelong process*

Removing the beam is not a one-time act. It symbolizes a lifelong commitment to self-examination, repentance, and growth. 

Every stage of life reveals new “beams” — pride, selfishness, resentment, or fear. The wise person continually works on their inner life.

Am I actively engaged in the slow, often uncomfortable work of inner transformation?

*5) A call to spiritual maturity*

Ultimately, this teaching moves us toward maturity: the ability to own our brokenness, extend grace to others, and live with integrity.

It urges us not just to “look good” but to be good — not superficially, but deeply, from the heart.

*6) Closing Thought*

Removing the beam from our own eye is a call to humility, honesty, and love. 

It reminds us that transformation begins within, and only when we’ve faced our own darkness can we become light for others. 

Rather than condemning others, we are invited to compassion — grounded in the truth about ourselves.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*