Sorely Mistaken

I think it is a common misconception in society, and even among Christians that our brethren are to be perfect, and when they fall short of the mark it is an opportunity to taunt or tempt them. It is true that we are called to be perfect, and this is a constant process, but the failures of a person do not necessarily necessitate that one sound a horn in triumph over them or that we are better. In fact, it should be remembered that race we run is not against them; rather, when we are judged our Lord will gaze upon us to see if we have lived up to what He knew we were capable of. It is he who knows are flaws, vices, weaknesses and shortcomings. Every encounter with those err is opportunity to do one of two things:

1. Charitably correct them and take note of the act ourselves so that we too learn and avoid it.
2. Pray for them.

There will be many circumstances where the shortcomings of other will try us, especially those who abide with us and I think this quote by St. Josemaria is quite appropriate in such situations:

It is inevitable that you should feel the rub of other people's characters against your own. After all, you are not a gold coin that everyone likes.

Besides, without that friction produced by contact with others, how would you ever lose those corners, those edges and projections — the imperfections and defects — of your character, and acquire the smooth and regular finish, the firm flexibility of charity, of perfection?

If your character and the characters of those who live with you were soft and sweet like sponge-cake you would never become a saint. (The Way, 20)

The short comings of others will often cause us to exercise patience, and see the splinter in our own eye. In all our daily endeavors, we must strive to remember that all whom we encounter are made in the image and likeness of God, temples of the Holy Spirit; therefore, we should strive to treat them as such, though they anger us.

We are always called to be a reflection of God's love and when people look upon us they should see Christ, so let us remember to ever strive to holiness and perfection and remember the path to perfection means that we are not yet perfect but are slowly becoming as such by our trials and tribulations, for it is in such ways that we learn to understand the Passion and Cross of our Lord.

God bless you.
Feast of St. Camilus de Lellis / St. Syphmrosa & her Seven Sons