Is it true we should compare ourselves to Jesus?

Melissa_Laurita · #1 Mar 12, '12, 2:40 pm

I noticed that we as humans seem to naturally compare ourselves and our sins to those who are doing worse than us. Just the other day, I passed by this gentleman who had people signing a petition to legalize Gay Marriage. He stepped right in front of me and asked me to sign it. I told him that I didn't agree with that lifestyle, therefore I wouldn't promote it. He said, "Well, there are people out there doing a lot worse stuff than being gay". And then I realized that I do that. No matter what it is that I do, I always think "Well, it's not as bad as what some people are doing." I think this is horrible that I do this! I talked to the Priest about it and he told me that the ONLY person we should compare ourselves to is Jesus. Even though we will never be close to as good as Him, we will be a lot better than comparing ourselves to someone who does worse sin, especially since there will always be someone doing something worse than you. Do you agree with this?

Carlj1497 · #2 Mar 12, '12, 2:50 pm

I seem to do that too. I think we all do. But your Priest had some great advice, we should really compare ourselves to Jesus.

Stumblesalot · #3 Mar 12, '12, 3:32 pm

I agree that males should aspire to be like Our Blessed Lord Jesus and imitate Him as best we can. Females should attempt to imitate Our Blessed Lady, as did the great Saint Philomena. While we will fall short, these are our role models.

God bless

Polycarp1 · #4 Mar 12, '12, 3:33 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Melissa_Laurita

I noticed that we as humans seem to naturally compare ourselves and our sins to those who are doing worse than us. Just the other day, I passed by this gentleman who had people signing a petition to legalize Gay Marriage. He stepped right in front of me and asked me to sign it. I told him that I didn't agree with that lifestyle, therefore I wouldn't promote it. He said, "Well, there are people out there doing a lot worse stuff than being gay". And then I realized that I do that. No matter what it is that I do, I always think "Well, it's not as bad as what some people are doing." I think this is horrible that I do this! I talked to the Priest about it and he told me that the ONLY person we should compare ourselves to is Jesus. Even though we will never be close to as good as Him, we will be a lot better than comparing ourselves to someone who does worse sin, especially since there will always be someone doing something worse than you. Do you agree with this?

I don't think that excuse would work well at the final judgement.

Calgar · #5 Mar 12, '12, 3:38 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Melissa_Laurita

the ONLY person we should compare ourselves to is Jesus.

That's true. Southern Baptists teach the same thing.

Homosexual activity is sinful, and you were right not to sign the petition, but so is telling a lie, adultery, stealing, etc.

DavidPalm · #6 Mar 12, '12, 3:38 pm

Such a great point.

A friend of mine, whom I really respect, made just this point to me two Sundays ago. We were talking about raising kids and he said that anytime his kids--they're good kids, clean living, devout, orthodox Catholics--say, "Hey Dad, we're doing pretty well, just look at all those other kids" he tells them, "Hey! Your standard is not those other kids. Your standard is Jesus Christ!"

Man, it really went right to the heart of things for me. I have to use that on my own kids.....and myself.