When have you noticed a “beam” in your own life before pointing out another’s “speck”? Rev. Rob McPherson reflects on Fetti’s The Parable of the Mote and the Beam inviting a transformation from judgmentalism to humility and healing. The painting and scripture call viewers to bring their own burdens into God’s grace and learn to extend that same compassion to others.

Matthew 7:1-5

In this episode of Art and Prayer, Rev. Rob McPherson explores the themes of judgment and self-awareness through Domenico Fetti’s The Parable of the Mote and the Beam. As Jesus counsels in Matthew 7:1–5, the exaggerated contrast of a mote versus a beam invites viewers into a gentle confrontation with their own tendency to judge others. The session balances this challenge with compassion, reminding participants that humility should extend both outward and inward.

Exploring the painting’s narrative, Fetti uses satire: one man bears a massive beam protruding from his eye, while chastising a younger man who, despite his own finger pointing, has only a speck. This visual metaphor underscores how judgment distances believers from both grace and others. Quotes from Ram Dass punctuate the reflection, emphasizing that judgment often arises from inner insecurity — stifling connection and closing hearts.

The scriptural foundation from Matthew 7 is read slowly, prompting listeners to reflect not on condemnation, but on honest self-awareness. Guided questions invite viewers to consider any memories in need of healing or actions that call for forgiveness, encouraging them to bring these moments gently to God. The goal is not perfection, but transformation through grace.

Fetti’s painting becomes a spiritual mirror — one that reveals blind spots, opens pathways for healing, and reminds participants of God’s invitation to extend grace. The episode concludes with a personal anecdote: past regrets can become reminders of values, not self-condemnation, encouraging a posture of self-compassion and forward movement.