Monday of the Fifth Week

Reflection

My mother has a saying, “there but for the grace of God go I.” It was often invoked when she listened to one of her children critiquing someone else’s behavior. This phrase came to mind as I was reading John’s Gospel where the woman who has sinned is brought before Jesus. Her shortcomings are publicly proclaimed by the standard bearers of her time and she is to be condemned for them. Perhaps we have been the “scribes and Pharisees”- quick to point out other’s faults and mistakes while cloaking ourselves in righteousness; forgetting that tomorrow we might well find ourselves on the other side of the line in need of grace? Perhaps we, like the woman, know what it is to have our worst mistakes widely broadcast; standing exposed and braced for the judgement of others while struggling with our conscience?

 

Jesus’ response to the woman’s situation is powerful in two ways I think. First, when He refrains from condemning her and challenges her accusers instead to “let the one among you who is without sin throw the first stone at her,” He reminds us that we all will sin and be in need of grace during our journeys. Christians must act with compassion. To be shown mercy we must extend mercy. Second, Jesus reminds us that, like the woman, when we sin it does not have to define or trap us forever. We can choose to turn from sin and when we do the “grace of God” will bring us a fresh start. God will always show us compassion.

Prayer

O Lord, may there always be compassion, grace and mercy for others in my heart, in my words and in my actions. Help me to extend my empathy for others and refrain from being judgmental. Amen.

Amy Rock-Wardwell, ’96
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