Leave the Alone
Rev. Denise Pierce uses four New Testament stories to show how people—whether seen as too holy like Anna, not holy enough like the adulterous woman, giving too little like the poor widow, or giving too much like the woman with the alabaster jar—are often criticized unfairly by others, especially within religious spaces. In each case, Jesus intervenes, not to condemn but to affirm, defend, and honor their faith, reminding us that only God fully understands each person’s heart and calling. Her message encourages us to stop judging others and instead trust that God is working uniquely in every life—so when tempted to criticize, just leave them alone.
