Questions

Life is full of so many questions. We question ourselves, we question our spouse, our children, our friends, those we don't know and, even at times, our God. It was in the last instance that a very important question was asked and a valuable lesson taught. That question, if used more frequently and sincerely, would have a powerful impact on individuals, families and the world.

It occurred during a very sacred and special moment when Jesus Christ taught his apostles of his sacrifice and the passover.  On this occasion, with his apostles seated around him, he uttered a phrase that must have startled and saddened those with whom he ate; "Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me."

There was no finger pointing by those around him, only sorrow, indeed they were "very sorrowful". Following this declaration His humble table companions, one by one, asked; " Lord is it I "? 

What a lesson. Instead of accusing or judging, each humbly looked inside and asked is it I? Is it me? Am I the one who is going to betray You?

 Many times when counsel or correction is given, we, tend to think of those it could help. We learn of a problem in the world, or in our own life, and find others to blame. We so frequently see the faults others have, yet overlook the same, or more serious, faults in ourselves.

Surely it could not be me. . .or could it? What if it is us that needs to change, show more love, or is too judgmental.

This one question if asked more frequently could change lives. . .our own lives. We would be more able to love because we would be more focused on our own self-improvement and not the improvement of others. We would be more forgiving as the faults we see in those around us would also be recognized as our own, and that the struggle for self-mastery is universal work.

. . .Is it I?

Do we. . .I ask it enough?

It could be the difference in anger and rejection  -or-  love and acceptance.