Being Reconciled in Christ
2008 Adult Lenten Series—Pohick Episcopal Church
The Reverend Donald D. Binder, PhD
Class Two: Reflection Questions

Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?  Or how can you say to your neighbor, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ while the log is 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 neighbor’s eye.
—Matthew 7:3-5

• In what ways have I failed to take the log out of my own eye before taking the speck out of the eye of another (see list of “logs on the back)?

• Are there persons to whom I need Confess my wrongful actions (see the steps of Confession on the back)?

Types of “Logs”

• A Critical, Negative, Overly Sensitive Attitude (see Philippians 4:2-9)
  
  
• Sinful Speech (See James 3:5-10; 2 Timothy 2:16)
  
  
  • Reckless Words: Saying whatever comes to mind without thought for the consequences. Can lead to hurt and anger.
  • Grumbling and Complaining: Contributes to discord, irritates and offends others, and often inspires others to complain.
  • Falsehood: often not an outright lie, but an exaggeration, distortion or only part of the truth.
  • Gossip: To reveal or discuss personal facts about another for no legitimate purpose.
  • Slander: Speaking false or malicious words about someone, usually behind their back (backbiting).
    
    
• Sinful Desires (Idolatry)
  
  
  • Lusts of the Flesh: Overwhelming desire for these can lead to unfaithfulness, marital tensions, employment problems and financial distress.
  • Love of Money or Possessions: Can lead us to lie, break contracts, become stingy, do shoddy work and mistreat employees.
  • Preoccupation with Self: Concern with self-image can lead to constant desire for approval, in turn making us hesitant to confront moral wrongs, or even to engage in them ourselves.
  •  Pride and Arrogance: Lead us to blame others for our problems, not admit our faults, become defensive, and to insist upon our own way.
    
    
• Failure to Assume Responsibility
  
  
  • Keeping our Word: An unwillingness to follow up on commitments one has made, whether they be in business, at home or as a volunteer. Commitments should therefore not be made lightly.
  • Respecting Authority: An unwillingness to submit ourselves to established authorities, especially when we have a disagreement with them.
  • Applying the Golden Rule: Self-centeredness can lead to our inability to view the situation from the perspective of others.
    
    
• The Seven A’s of Confession (see James 5:16)
• Address everyone involved (All those whom you affected)
• Avoid if, but, and maybe (Do not try to excuse your wrongs)
• Admit specifically (Both attitudes and actions)
• Acknowledge the hurt (Express sorrow for hurting someone)
• Accept the consequences (Such as making restitution)
• Alter your behavior (Change your attitudes and actions)
• Ask for forgiveness