11. The blind leading the blind

Gospel

Luke 6:39-42

Can the blind lead the blind?

Jesus told a parable to the disciples: ‘Can one blind man guide another? Surely both will fall into a pit? The disciple is not superior to his teacher; the fully trained disciple will always be like his teacher. Why do you observe the splinter in your brother’s eye and never notice the plank in your own? How can you say to your brother, “Brother, let me take out the splinter that is in your eye,” when you cannot see the plank in your own? Hypocrite! Take the plank out of your own eye first, and then you will see clearly enough to take out the splinter that is in your brother’s eye.’

Reflection

This passage is a profound call to radical self-honesty and humility. Jesus uses the humorous yet piercing imagery of the "plank" and the "splinter" to expose our natural tendency to fixate on the faults of others while remaining oblivious to our own. Spiritual leadership and fraternal correction are not forbidden, but they must be rooted in integrity. If we are blind to our own failings, we become dangerous guides who lead others into the "pit" of judgment and pride. By prioritizing our own repentance and growth, our vision is cleared to help others with genuine, clear-sighted love rather than hypocrisy.

Reflection Question

What is one "plank" in my own life—a recurring habit, prejudice, or flaw—that I have been ignoring while focusing on the minor faults of those around me?

Prayer

Lord, grant me the courage to look inward before I cast judgment outward. Remove the scales from my eyes so that I may see my own need for Your mercy. Teach me to lead with humility and to serve others with the same patience and grace You constantly show to me. Amen.

Comments

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