I imagine that every person on earth
has been affected in some way by the destructive spirit
of contention, resentment, and revenge.
Perhaps there are even times when we recognize
this spirit in ourselves.
When we feel hurt, angry, or envious,
it is quite easy to judge other people, often assigning
dark motives to their actions in order
to justify our own feelings of resentment.
Of course, we know this is wrong.
The doctrine is clear.
We all depend on the Savior.
None of us can be saved without Him.
Christ's Atonement is infinite and eternal.
Forgiveness for our sins comes with conditions.
We must repent, and we must be willing to forgive others.
Jesus taught: "Forgive one another;
for he that forgiveth not ...
[stands] condemned before the Lord;
for there remaineth in him the greater sin,"
and "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy."
May I add a footnote here?
When the Lord requires that we forgive all men,
that includes, of course, forgiving ourselves.
This topic of judging others could actually
be taught in a two-word sermon.
When it comes to hating, gossiping, ignoring,
ridiculing, holding grudges, or wanting to cause harm,
please apply the following:
Stop it!
It's that simple.
We simply have to stop judging others
and replace judgmental thoughts and feelings
with a heart full of love for God and His children.
God is our Father.
We are His children.
We are all brothers and sisters.
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, wherever we may be, let us
be known as people who have love one to another.
Remember, heaven is filled with those who have this in common:
They are forgiven.
And they forgive.
Lay your burden at the Savior's feet.
Let go of judgment.
Allow Christ's Atonement to change and heal your heart.
Love one another.
Forgive one another.
The merciful will obtain mercy.
Of this I testify in the name of the One who loved so well
and so completely that He gave His life for us,
His friends--in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.