Monday of the Fifth Week

Reflection

Today’s readings bring a theme of acceptance, fairness, understanding, and nonjudgement. In both the first reading and the Gospel, two women are judged by others. In both cases, the “victims” had a trust and belief in God; one woman was accused falsely and the other was seemingly guilty, but penitent. One believed that God would save her as the truths were revealed; the other believed and hoped that she would be forgiven for her actions. In both cases, God let justice prevail.

In our world today, we are oftentimes quick to judge people on their actions, on their skin color, on their looks, on their country of origin, or on their beliefs.  They are “lumped” together and judgement is passed on those characteristics without looking at and considering the individual and their circumstances. How would an all-knowing, all-loving and forgiving God see them?

The comment, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her” always resonates with me as a guide about judging others. The mere fact that we are human suggests that we are not without sin. We must learn to be compassionate, understanding, and open to the strengths and weaknesses of all. Each of us needs to be accountable to ourselves and to God.

Prayer

O Lord, please help me to see the goodness and uniqueness in each person in my day to day interactions. I know that I have been hasty to judge people at times, and for that I am sorry. It is You, in Your mercy, that will be the sole judge of all of us. Amen.

Barb Gaida, M’01, Member of the Worshipping Community

Scripture

First Reading: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62

Psalm 23:1-6
Gospel: John 8:1-11

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website