The eye is a magnificently complex and delicate thing. So many intricate parts work together to provide sight and stimulation for the human mind. But even a tiny piece of dust (or an eyelash) caught in an eye can be cause for utter agony (and an inability to think of anything but that particular issue for several minutes).
It’s no surprise that a large object in our eyes can cause severe damage, potentially even blindness. But a small foreign object (anything from dust to a piece of wood) can also do the same, if left untreated too long. This is also true spiritually, and Jesus knew this long before ophthalmologists told us:
Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye. ~ Matthew 7:3-5
Both the log and the speck must be taken out for the sake of your sight! This is a particularly apt passage when thinking of our parenting. God has given parents a serious task: to help our children with their faults and sin, to train them to love what is good and true and right, and to discipline and instruct them.
And it’s so easy to see the faults of others (our children, yes, but also spouses, coworkers, neighbors, and so on!). My own faults are harder to see, yet more urgent to fix!
How can I see clearly to train my child until I have taken care of the branch sticking out of my own head? We must remember that our example is the most powerful teacher we have. It’s difficult for a child to watch an immature adult – and then be asked to behave better! I must examine my own heart and actions.
Do I correct objectively and calmly or in the heat of frustration or anger?
Do I practice patience with their tender hearts or do I care more about our efficiency and my schedule?
Do I show that I care more about other people’s opinions or about doing what’s best for my child, regardless of where we are?
The list could easily go on.
As I correct how I interact with my children, this by proxy solves many disciplines tangles. Am I advocating that we be perfect parents? Absolutely not! We know each of us are in desperate need of God’s grace. But that truth is no excuse for not taking the plank out of our own eyes.
Photo by Fairuz Naufal Zaki on Unsplash
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