1 Tim 1:1-2, 12-14 / Luke 6:39-42
Whenever we feel pain, it is usually a sign of a problem that needs our attention.
If it is a physical pain, then we will have to go consult a doctor to see what is the problem.
But there can be pains that are not physical and they affect us, if we take notice of them.
In the gospel, Jesus told a parable about seeing the faults in ourselves first before looking at the faults of others.
Jesus gave the imagery of having a plank in our own eye and yet we divert our attention to the splinter in the eyes of others.
The imagery of a plank in the eye is obviously to make the point of the parable.
But it can be unimaginable for such an object in the eye and not notice it or feel a piercing pain from it.
Yet, we rather distract ourselves with the problems of others than to look at our own problems.
In the 1st reading, St. Paul was humble to admit that he used to blaspheme and did all he could to injure and discredit the faith.
But God showed him mercy, he saw that mercy, and he is now filled with faith and love that is in Christ Jesus.
May we see the plank in our eyes, but may we also see the mercy of God.
And filled with faith and love, may we also guide others to Jesus Christ, our Saviour and our hope.