It's a human thing to jump to conclusions, to judge other people and to justify ourselves. It's not pretty, but it is part of who we are. As Kate Huey asks in her sermon on the subject, "How is it that I can so easily divide the world into two kinds of people, the good and the bad?"

It seems to me that part of the problem is that we don't slow down long enough to really look at other people, to consider them as children of God, and to understand their wants, needs and motivations. We are quick to categorize because that makes like easier for us.

This Sunday's Gospel lesson (Luke 7: 36-50) brings these issues to the forefront. Simon, a Pharisee, has invited Jesus to his home for dinner. Soon, though, a woman of questionable reputation approaches Jesus. Simon knows what this woman is all about. Jesus, however, welcomes the woman who begins bathing his feet with her tears and anointing him with oil. Simon, jumping to conclusions about the woman's motivation, puts her in her place. But Jesus challenges Simon, instead, saying, "The one to whom little is forgiven, loves little."

When are you tempted to jump to conclusions? Is your faith challenged when things are not as they seem? Is the dividing line in your life fixed or flexible?