(A Pharisee's Look At Life)
I look at all your faults, and I'm appalled by what I see,
And wonder why you do the things you do.
You tell me you're no worse than I, and if I'd closely check,
I'd find that I am just as bad as you.
But you are so bad tempered --almost ready to explode.
And lash out when all things don't go your way.
When I get angry, I am only angry for a cause,
And righteous indignation is okay.
You are so very proud of all the things that you possess,
And brag about your assets everywhere.
But I'm not proud like you-just have a healthy self-esteem,
Nor does my own self-image need repair.
I can't believe a word you say - you tell so many lies.
I'm sure you cheat when paying income tax.
But though I may withhold full truth, you can't call that a lie.
And why should I reveal unasked-for facts?
You gossip and you spread such tales, with untold damage done,
And sometimes lives are hurt beyond repair.
But if I tell you privately about some shameful act,
I only tell you so you'll say a prayer.
You're such a glutton when you eat, and have no self control.
You gobble almost everything in sight.
But I'm a connoisseur of food, with educated taste,
And food to me is truly a delight.
You have a judging attitude, and criticize and gripe
About the actions of all those you meet.
But I am just a fruit inspector, and I look at fruit,
To see if it is bitter, spoiled, or sweet.
You're stingy with your money, and you squeeze each dime you own,
And never want to pay your equal share.
But I am only frugal with the money I possess,
And for my later years I must prepare.
Because I am so holy, I'm concerned about your sins,
And publicly for all your faults I'll pray.
I'll pray the Lord will chastise you for all the things you've done,
And help you see the error of your way.
And then I'll offer thanks that I am filled with righteousness,
And serve my Lord in true humility.
I know He will reward me with the riches I deserve,
Because I am a perfect Pharisee!
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brothers eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brothers eye." Matthew 7:1-5
