We live in a world of truisms. Some that come to mind include: “The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.” “You get what you pay for.” “It is what it is.” Although not a truism by definition, today’s readings come close: “If you don’t agree with someone, do your best to tear them down.”

The theme resonates in the passage in Jeremiah: “Denounce! Let us denounce him! All those who were my friends are on the watch for any misstep of mine. Perhaps he will be trapped; then we can prevail. And Jesus’ reply in John: I have shown you many good works from my Father. For which of these are you trying to stone me?

When our beliefs, perceived values, or interpretations of right and wrong are challenged, we rarely take the time to understand what is being said. Rather, we lash out in an attempt to destroy the person whose statements have offended our sensibilities. It is far easier to attack the speaker than to try to understand a different point of view.

One need only look at the upcoming presidential election. Each side is doing its best NOT to extol its vision of what is good for America, but rather, why the opposition’s candidate is unfit to lead. Or, consider a college campus speaker whose words are drowned out by protestors intent on disrupting the event.

Is this how Christ wants us to respond when our views of right and wrong are challenged?

As we go about our daily examen of conscience, let’s try to focus on having our minds more open to the actions and opinions of others. Let’s ask God to help us listen with open hearts to the expressed values and beliefs of those to whom we are often opposed to or know little about. Let us try to find common ground, or as John said, to find their good works.

Hopefully, through our discernment, we will see how God wants us to respond to daily challenges and learn to treat all whom we encounter fairly and with justice, that we do not denounce them simply because they don’t agree with us, in the hope of denigrating them.  Let us try to find God’s presence within each and every person we encounter.

Perhaps in time, we will become slower to anger, less judgmental, more responsive to the needs of those on the margins, and more Christ-like in our compassion for others.