We’re living in a painfully divided time. I’m troubled to see people who call themselves Christians set aside Jesus’s warning — “Judge not, lest ye be judged” — and embrace hatred instead. Too often, cruelty and even violence are excused simply because someone is labeled “different” or “less worthy.”

I speak as someone who has been judged for whom I love and for being a woman. But the truth is, my life threatens no one. Their condemnation doesn’t protect them or make their faith stronger — it only spreads harm. If they would allow God to be the judge, as scripture teaches, then my existence would have no impact on theirs, except perhaps to remind them of the love and dignity we are all called to share.