“When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” [John 8:7]
Imagine what a different world this would be if no one could ever throw a stone at anyone else? It is so easy to accuse another of wrongdoing, but we often do so without ever taking a hard look at ourselves, where we might have fallen short, too. The scribes and the Pharisees brought the woman before Jesus as a test. They were trying to find a way to bring charges against him. Yet, Jesus didn’t fall into their trap. Instead, he thoughtfully engaged in silence until he had just the right words. So, you are accusing this woman of adultery (don’t you wonder where the guy was?). Well, I suggest that anyone who is without sin can go right ahead and cast the first stone. Of course, no one has the bravado to say they are without sin. So, one by one they drop their stones and go away. The woman and Jesus are left standing together. He doesn’t condemn her either. I am not sure our newspapers would have much to report if condemnations were removed! But what a wonderful world that would be.
Prayer
Loving God, I admit it is very easy to judge others and even suggest the appropriate punishment for whatever their crime may be. Yet, rarely in doing so, do I reflect on my own behaviors. Forgive me and place a new and right spirit of mercy and grace and in my heart, I pray. Amen.
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