Scripture:
Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62, or 13:41c-62
John 8:1-11
Reflection:
Let the one among us without sin cast the first stone…
I came to a very poignant realization as a group of very dear and important people in my life were made aware of a very delicate issue in society. This particular issue goes against the teachings of the church.
And having discussed this issue with my group of married couples from our church, I came to another realization – I am a sinner. We are all sinners, in one way or another. I cannot throw the first stone. I cannot judge or condemn because there is One before me who will take that roll at the end of our days. But we can be unceasingly compassionate when we see those we love in pain, maybe from choices they have made for their children, or maybe from choices made for themselves. And haven’t we all, at some point, been unfaithful? Unfaithful to our dedication to God, our prayer life, our mission on earth?
There is a condemnation of this woman of sin – people think that she should get what she deserves, just as many thought – no, believed – Jesus deserved crucifixion. In the adulterous woman, everyone sees their own sin. In my many years, I am learning that to write someone off for something they have done is not what Jesus wants from us. We must love everyone, as the products of a failed religious society, knowing that whatever they have decided to do with their lives we must be there for them to show our compassion. It doesn’t mean we shift our moral compass to make sure everyone gets what they believe they need. We follow the guidelines of our God to do what is right.
The reflection of those around us can be similar to what we experience in our own lives. I see myself in others; but now I see and remember that I have sinned, and those around me are as perfect as I am.
As you experience life around you, be the compassionate and merciful one, just as our God in Heaven.
God bless you all.
Patty Masson is the Director of Adult Formation and Evangelization at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church in Spring, Texas.