Words of Wisdom from JP's preacher

Hmm, I was just calling myself on the spiritual carpet before Mass this morning over this very issue.

A Tendency to Judge Is an Obstacle to Hearing God, Says Preacher

VATICAN CITY, JULY 20, 2004
The temptation to judge others is the greatest obstacle in listening to God, says preacher of the Pontifical Household.

Capuchin Father Raniero Cantalamessa made that comment today in reference to John Paul II's affirmation Sunday, when the Pope said at his Angelus address: "To listen to the Word of God is the most important thing in our lives."

Father Cantalamessa told Vatican Radio: "In addition to the external obstacles imposed by the rhythm of modern life, there is an even more dangerous noise: the one which impedes our hearts from listening to the Word of God when judging others."

This attitude "makes us judges who judge the whole world. This silent 'noise' of the heart must be silenced in our minds -- at times even with violence," he said.

"Enough, enough of this sort of reasoning, of complaints!" the priest said. He said people must tell themselves: "I want to read the Word of God, I want to listen to the Word of God, I want to repeat within me the Word of God."

It is an exercise that helps "to pass from useless, noisy, egoistic thoughts to thoughts that come from God," he added.