Monday, April 7, 2014

Monday of the 5th Week of Lent (A)


John 8:1-11. Are we called to condemn or to forgive? The Scribes and the Pharisees were inclined to condemn not only the woman but also Jesus. They brought to the Lord a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery to test him regarding the issue of retribution so that they could find something to accuse him. If Jesus said the woman must be pardoned, he would be held in contempt of the Law of Moses. If he said the woman must be stoned to death, he would be contradicting himself as a teacher of mercy. Jesus’ response showed the greatness of his mind and heart. “Let him who has no sin be the first one to throw a stone at her.” No one dared to cast a single stone because all have realized their sinfulness. “Neither do I condemn you”, the Lord said, “Go, and sin no more.”