Universal Utterings

for November 18, 2024

A Godcast

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11-18-24 John 8 v1216 You Judge by Appearances

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The Gospel of John Chapter 8 V- 12 and 16

12 Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” 13 So the Pharisees said to him, “You testify on your own behalf, so your testimony cannot be verified.” 14 Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I do testify on my own behalf, my testimony can be verified, because I know where I came from and where I am going. But you do not know where I come from or where I am going. 15 You judge by appearances, but I do not judge anyone. 16 And even if I should judge, my judgment is valid, because I am not alone, but it is I and the Father who sent me.

In John 8:12-16, Jesus proclaims, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life." This powerful declaration serves as a reminder that true illumination comes from faith, not from outward appearances. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody this light, serving others with love and compassion, regardless of their appearance, smell, or clothing.

Reflecting on this scripture, I feel a deep conviction to embrace serving without judgment. In a world that often places undue emphasis on superficial qualities, it is vital to remember that every person is created in the image of God, deserving of dignity and respect. When we allow ourselves to judge others based on their outward appearance, we dim the light that Christ calls us to carry. Instead, we should approach everyone with open hearts, seeking to understand their stories, struggles, and stresses.

Serving without judgment means looking beyond the surface and recognizing the inherent worth of every individual. It challenges us to see Christ in everyone, especially those who may be marginalized or overlooked. When we give without reservation—whether through acts of kindness, sharing resources, or simply offering a listening ear—we reflect the love of Jesus, who welcomed all, regardless of societal standards.

Ultimately, John 8:12-16 teaches us that our role as beacons of light is to illuminate the path for others, guiding them toward hope and healing. Let us strive to serve selflessly, embracing all people with compassion, and illuminating their lives with the love of Christ. In doing so, we fulfill our calling and create a community where everyone feels valued and accepted. Amen.

Join me as we pray our daily prayer of forgiveness. The Lord’s Prayer.

At the Savior's command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.

I am sorry Lord. I believe You died and rose for me. Please forgive me as I forgive others. I share You as my Lord and Savior seeking to live your Will in all things. Prayers for wife Toni and my mother Betty pray for our children especially our two oldest Alexandra & Allen Son in Law Mark Stern; Julian, Gabriel and Jeffrey and our grandchildren Oliver, Julian and Elliott. We pray for those we’ve said we’d pray for and those who’ve asked us to pray for them. We pray for the dying as we do each day Lord give them peace in their last breath. We pray for Holy Mother Church. Our prayers for our niece Brittany. In Jesus Precious Blood by His Name we pray. Amen.

I am a poet obedient to Christ,

Catholic Evangelist Thomas Cruz†Wiggins

†Spirit led God inspired Christ fed†®

Ephesians 6:17-20

11-18-2024 John 8 v1216

**You Judge by Appearances**

In shadows deep, where hope seems dim,

A voice resounds, a radiant hymn.

“I am the Light,” the Savior declares,

To guide us through life’s burdens and cares.

No judgment cast on those who stray,

For every heart seeks a brighter day.

With open arms and love profound,

In the darkest places, His grace abounds.

Beyond the clothes, the scent, the guise,

He sees the soul through loving eyes.

Each weary traveler, each broken heart,

In His warm light, we find a new start.

So let us shine, like stars at night,

Reflecting His love, a beacon of light.

Serving the lost, the hurting, the weak,

With kindness and mercy, it’s love that we speak.

No soul is lesser, no worth unseen,

In God’s great tapestry, each thread is keen.

Together we walk, hand in hand,

In the light of Christ, united we stand.

So let’s share His light, let’s banish the gloom,

With hearts open wide, let compassion bloom.

For in every person, we find a spark,

Igniting the world, dispelling the dark. Amen.

© Thomas Joe Cruz†Wiggins

November 18, 2024 @ 04:44 AM EST

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