What is your verdict?

I was not picked to sit on the jury to my great relief. However, it was a very eye opening experience to be summoned for federal court.

It's sobering to think of a person's fate resting in your hands. It was a criminal case. Therefore, the verdict rested entirely on the jury of peers. The decision needed to be unanimous as well.

Once we were free to go, I began to wonder how would I have been as a juror? But my thoughts began to take a more theological turn. Namely, how am I when it comes to the internal verdicts I make everyday about situations and particularly people?

Today the judge charged the jury to make their decision based on evidence alone, not on personal history or bias.

So I ask myself, on what basis do I mentally weigh my brothers and sisters and unbelievers as well? Is my basis the Word of God or my own personal history, bias, or preference? Am I willing to hold myself to the same scrutiny and severity that I would apply to others? Am I quick to render a verdict but slow to show love and compassion? Am I willing to be tougher with myself than with others?

Sitting in the courtroom has given me a lot to think about.