Dear Customers and Friends:
In the great Sermon on the Mount, what was Jesus talking about when he said to “take the plank out of your own eye?” Taken literally, it doesn’t make much sense. However, Jesus was exaggerating to make a point that we should all consider as a New Year’s resolution in 2023.
Before I explain, let me share a story from a 1960s episode of the Andy Griffith television show that makes the same point.
Sheriff Andy Taylor was disappointed in Opie after learning his son had snubbed a local children’s charity drive at school with a measly contribution of
three pennies – the lowest amount of anyone in his classroom. When Opie admits he’s holding back money to buy a present for his girlfriend, Charlotte, Andy is beside himself with anger and embarrassment.
As she often does, Aunt Bee intercedes, telling Andy to have faith in Opie and to not judge him so harshly. Andy reluctantly gives in and apologizes to Opie. “Son, since it’s your money, it’s okay if you want to spend it all on your girlfriend.”
Opie explains he’s been saving to buy her a coat. “Her family doesn’t have a lot of money, and her coat is kinda worn out.”
“But Opie, you never told me what the money was for,” Andy says, feeling guilty for misjudging his son.
“Pa, you never asked,” Opie replies.
Jesus was preaching a similar lesson when he asked, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”
Aren’t we all guilty? In the workplace, some co-workers focus more on criticizing others for a problem rather than working together to fix it. At home and among friends, people can be quick to gossip about someone’s actions before knowing the truth. Sadly, all the finger-pointing in our recent elections sets one of the worst examples for how we should live our lives.
This year, let’s resolve to show a little more grace toward others. Let’s get rid of the plank and look in the mirror at our own lives.
If Andy Taylor can do it, then we sure can try, too.
Blessed to be a Blessing,
Greg Syfan
President, Syfan Logistics
“How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” – Matthew 7:4-5